Together, our campus is taking intentional steps to advance Latinx student success. The Seal of Excelencia recognizes institutions that turn commitment into meaningful action and measurable impact—and this is our moment to lead.
What is the Seal of Excelencia?
The Seal of Excelencia is an assessment framework and national certification developed by Excelencia in Education that recognizes institutions for intentionally advancing Latinx undergraduate student success through data-informed practice, leadership, and accountability.
Institutions that earn the Seal demonstrate a sustained commitment to equity, student success, and continuous improvement. Learn more about the Seal of Excelencia here.
Why This Matters at Chico State
Chico State serves a growing and diverse student population, including a significant number of Latinx undergraduate students. This work allows us to take a focused, campus-wide look at how well our programs, practices, and policies support student success—and where we can do better.
Pursuing the Seal is about more than recognition. It is an opportunity to strengthen our practices, align our efforts, expand what works, and sustain meaningful change for students.
Our Goal
By May 1, 2026, our Seal of Excelencia Taskforce will:
Complete a comprehensive institutional assessment using the Seal of Excelencia Framework, examining institutional strategies, practices, and outcomes across the past five academic years (2021–22 through 2025–26).
Develop and submit a high-quality, evidence-based application draft to Cabinet that reflects our sustained, student-centered commitment to advancing Latinx student success
Document and elevate the impactful work advancing Latinx undergraduate student success across our campus
Seal of Excelencia Taskforce
Appointed by President Perez, the Seal of Excelencia Taskforce brings together faculty, staff, and campus leaders from across the university with expertise in key focus areas to guide this work.
Focus Areas & Workgroup Leads:
Enrollment: Serge Desir, Ryan Patten
Transfer In/Out: Serge Desir, Ryan Patten
Retention/Persistence: Cecilia Santillán-Robles, Lupe Jiménez
Financial Support: Kentiner David, Gina O’Neal
Completion & Beyond: Kate McCarthy, Megan Odom, Sharon Barrios, Maleta Wilson
Faculty & Staff Representation: Michelle Morris, Sheryl Woodward, Mahalley Allen
Leadership: Ashley Gebb, Joseph Morales, Andrew Staples
- Institutional Research and Strategic Analytics (IRSA) Liaison: Tricia Douthit
- Taskforce Coordination: Teresita Curiel
The taskforce’s efforts are strengthened through partnership with the University Diversity Council (UDC).
Timeline
Milestones will guide our progress from assessment through application submission.
Note: Click on the image above to view a larger version.