U.S. Department of State names Lone Star College a Fulbright Hispanic-Serving Institutional Leader

HOUSTON, TX -- Lone Star College has been named a Fulbright Hispanic-Serving Institution Leader for 2023. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs recognizes Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) annually as “Fulbright HSI Leaders” for their noteworthy engagement with the Fulbright Program.

“Lone Star College’s designation as a 2023 Fulbright Hispanic Serving Institution Leader is a testament to the institution’s dedication to promoting global engagement and mutual understanding among peoples and nations,” said Anthony J. Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State in a statement.

The initiative encourages administrators, faculty and students at HSIs to engage with Fulbright and highlights the strength of HSIs as destinations for international students and scholars. The recognized colleges and universities include two Associate Colleges, five Baccalaureate Colleges and Special Focus Institutions, 14 Master’s Colleges and Universities and 25 Doctoral Universities.

“To be selected a Fulbright Hispanic Serving Institution Leader is truly an honor,” said Mario K. Castillo, J.D., LSC chancellor. “This recognition is a testament to the level of support all Lone Star College students receive. I applaud the efforts of our faculty and staff who work together as one Lone Star College to help our students fulfill their dreams.”

LSC welcomed 39,640 Hispanic students in fall 2023, representing 44.6% of the total student population.

“Representation matters and pairing the world-class educational opportunities that Hispanic-Serving Institutions provide with the power of Fulbright further enriches the experience and educational opportunities for students and scholars both at home and abroad, said Lee Satterfield, assistant secretary of state for Educational and Cultural Affairs.”

In addition to being named a Fulbright HSI Leader, LSC was awarded two 2022-2023 Fulbright Scholar Program scholarships in February 2023. The Fulbright Scholar Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government, designed to increase mutual understanding between people from other countries.

“As a diplomat, I love the Fulbright Program because it supports changemakers and fosters global cooperation,” said Blinken. “Fulbrighters make the world a better place in classrooms and countries worldwide.”

LSC also serves as the host college for Community College for International Development (CCID), which co-sponsors Fulbright Program webinars with the LSC Office of Honors and International Education. This opportunity allows LSC faculty and staff to learn about these programs and how to apply successfully.

“The Honors College at Lone Star College helps students be engaged and challenged both inside and outside the classroom and connect with students and university partners all around the world,” said Katharine Caruso, Ph.D., LSC associate vice chancellor, Honors and International Education. “Students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of virtual exchange, travel, and research opportunities that develop intercultural communication, analytical and leadership skills to help them succeed.”

Spring registration is underway, visit LoneStar.edu to see how you can start close and go far. To learn more about the Fulbright HSI Leaders Initiative visit FulbrightProgram.org.