One of only 50 fellows chosen for a year-long program focused on higher education leadership. 
Abe Villarreal, Douglas Campus Dean, has been named as one of only 50 fellows for the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities’ (HACU) Leadership Academy, La Academia de Liderazgo. The one-year program prepares leaders for senior roles within higher education institutions, emphasizing Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). The announcement of his selection as a Capital One Fellowship recipient and HACU Leadership Academy participant has generated enthusiasm throughout the college community.
“I am humbled and honored to be chosen for this program,” Dean Villarreal stated. “Latinos continue to represent a small percentage of leadership roles in higher education, so I appreciate that Cochise College is investing in its employees for professional development opportunities.”
The HACU Leadership Academy prepares leaders in higher education in cultural diversity development and growth. Participants benefit from valuable mentorships and opportunities for international collaboration focusing on the unique needs of Hispanic-serving institutions.
“Having employees experience these training and networking events is always a plus for the broader college community,” Villarreal added. “Knowledge is brought back and shared with others, and connections are made to bring future programs and initiatives that benefit our students and staff.”
Villarreal will be part of La Academia de Liderazgo’s fifth cohort. The Academy has produced accomplished leaders who have made significant strides in higher education and the development of Hispanic-serving institutions.