With Hispanics comprising the fastest growing minority population in the nation, and the workforce requiring more education than ever before, something must be done to increase the number of Hispanics who complete degrees in higher education, lest more Hispanics end up in poverty. Today, access to Higher Education is critically important in order "to advance the economic and social status of Hispanics the Hispanic community," as demonstrated by the following statistics:

• In the year 2050, Hispanics will be the second largest racial/ethnic group in the United States.
• College enrollment for Hispanics between 18-24 rose slightly from 13% in the mid-70s to just 16% by the mid-90s.
• During the same period, the percentage of Hispanic low-income high school students enrolled in college fell from 50% to 35%.
• As of 1996, only 9% of the Hispanic population held a university degree.

(Statistics from the Aspen Institute, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, U.S. Department of the Census)

These figures show an alarming trend in the lack of advanced education for Hispanic students. A significant barrier to this is the increasing cost of higher education. LAEF addresses these issues by providing programs which increase access to higher educational opportunities for Hispanic students.

"Another obstacle toward education is overcome with your assistance."
Thia Gonzales

"You are doing more than helping me through college, you are also helping me make my dreams come true."
Erica Soto

"Thank you for acting as role models for young Hispanics like myself. It is great to see successful Hispanics helping further the education of others. Thanks for encouraging me to strive for the best in the future."
Melinda Gonzales

LAEF 1999-2000 Scholarship Recipients