News

Susanna Zambrano lands spot in HACU Leadership Academy

November 2, 2026

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12-month program provides intensive higher education training with emphasis on Hispanic-serving institutions

Yuma, Ariz. (November 2, 2026) – Susanna Zambrano, Arizona Western College Dean of Regional Centers and Adult Education, has been accepted as a fellow in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Leadership Academy. The 12-month program prepares the next generation of higher education leaders with an emphasis on Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI).

“I hope this experience will broaden my perspective and help me continue growing as a leader,” she said. “I believe there is always more to learn, especially when it comes to understanding how we can better serve our Hispanic students and all students at AWC.”

As one of 22 fellows from around the country to be accepted for the eighth cohort of the program, Zambrano will participate in multiple week-long seminars and hybrid sessions focused on developing culturally responsive institutional leaders. The training is built around collaboration, mentorship, and curriculum that prioritizes the leadership search process, leadership fundamentals, current critical issues, and international relations.

“Susie demonstrates leadership by keeping students, workforce opportunity, and community impact at the center of her work,” said Dr. Shadi Kilani, Executive Vice President of the Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College. “She is helping expand career pathways in areas such as allied health, skilled trades, and logistics, while strengthening support for La Paz County and AWC’s satellite locations. That work reflects the mission of AWC as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.”

Through the duration of the program, Zambrano will work with a seasoned university president or administrator, benefitting from one-on-one mentorship as she develops a course project tailored to her position at AWC.

“My hope is to bring what I learn back to the college and apply it in meaningful ways to better serve our students and communities,” Zambrano said. “Ultimately, I want to continue doing my part to support AWC's mission of transforming lives through education and partnerships to create thriving communities.”

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About HACU
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain and school districts throughout the U.S. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Association’s headquarters in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C and Sacramento, California.

Contact: 
Travis Mitchell
Director of Marketing
Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College
travis.mitchell@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7677