Mariana Jimenez Femat, a 2023 graduate of the M.S. in Higher Education program at the Maywood Education Fair, is a shining example of the success that can be achieved through programs like Project upGRADS and the Master of Science in Higher Education program at Cal State Fullerton. These programs have been recognized as finalists for the 2024 Examples of Excelencia by Excelencia in Education, showcasing their commitment to supporting underrepresented graduate students, particularly Latinx students, in achieving academic success.
Project upGRADS, led by faculty members Katherine Powers and Volker Janssen, has made significant strides in improving enrollment, persistence, and graduation rates for Latinx graduate students across various disciplines. With close to 7,000 graduate students served, the program has been instrumental in addressing disparities in Latinx student success in higher education. Through initiatives such as one-on-one academic advising, mentorship, scholarships, and professional development opportunities, Project upGRADS has seen an increase in Latinx graduate admissions from 30% in 2020 to 36% in 2023.
One of the key components of Project upGRADS is the Master’s Early Transition and Access (META) summer program, which helps first-year Latinx students acclimate to graduate student life and expectations. Additionally, the Pa’lante Fellowship program connects faculty advisers with graduate students of color, providing them with support, mentorship, and scholarship opportunities. By investing in advising staff and faculty training in cultural humility, Project upGRADS has created a supportive environment that fosters Latinx students’ sense of belonging and success in graduate school.
The M.S. in Higher Education program at Cal State Fullerton focuses on leadership, social justice, and advocacy in higher education. Through a collaborative and scholarly community, the program prepares students for roles that support student learning and development in higher education settings. The program’s key service-learning component, the Maywood Education Fair, provides students with hands-on experience in organizing community events that promote a college-going culture among Latinx populations.
Over the past 15 years, the M.S. in Higher Education program has seen impressive graduation rates among Latinx students, with a 92.6% graduation rate from 2020-23. The program has also successfully prepared students to enter the workforce in positions that support student learning and development. With a focus on promoting academic and professional success, the program has become a beacon of excellence in higher education preparation.
In conclusion, Mariana Jimenez Femat’s success as a graduate of the M.S. in Higher Education program at the Maywood Education Fair is a testament to the impactful work being done by programs like Project upGRADS and the M.S. in Higher Education program at Cal State Fullerton. By prioritizing the needs of underrepresented graduate students, particularly Latinx students, these programs are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable higher education landscape.
