History of the Hispanic Excellence Scholarship Fund

The Hispanic Excellence Scholarship Fund (HESF) is a California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) initiative, established in 1984 by CSU President Emeritus Dr. Tomás A. Arciniega (CSUB President 1983-2004) to increase access to a college education for academically-excellent, financially-deserving, underrepresented students who demonstrate leadership potential. We are proud to say they now are entering the university in record numbers.

CSUB continues to offer HESF strong university support through continuation of the President's Scholarship Matching Program (PSMP) through which local funds raised by HESF are matched on a 1:1 basis through lottery funds — your donations are doubled. HESF is considered an important illustration of "Excellence at CSUB."

Over the past 40 years, the HESF has become a most impressive program that says volumes about the commitment and generosity of our community to its rising leaders of tomorrow.

Led by Board President Mr. Ed Herrera, the CSUB-HESF Community Advisory Board is comprised of representatives from the local business, governmental and educational communities. These prominent community leaders enthusiastically participate in this fundraising endeavor — they are strong student advocates and serve as CSUB-HESF goodwill community ambassadors.

From a small, local scholarship program, CSUB-HESF has grown to become one of the premiere state university-based scholarship programs of its kind.

The program continues to grow in student success. As of 2024, CSUB-HESF has assisted more than 1,800 local students to pursue their dreams of higher education, awarding more than $3.1 million in scholarships. CSUB-HESF graduates go on to become our local business, government, educational and community leaders.

CSUB-HESF is planning. In partnership with the national Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF), in 2000, a joint endowment fund was established valued at nearly $700,000. A growing number of scholarships are now funded through this endowment collaborative. CSUB-HESF has also formed other strong local partnerships, such as with the Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation. Together, we are leveraging our efforts to benefit local students.

Local support has been truly impressive as corporations, individuals and family donors have responded generously. While we welcome new supporters, most of our sponsors join CSUB annually in this effort — we especially thank our long-time supporters.