ALHAMBRA, CA – Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) celebrates Governor Gavin Newsom’s signing of AB 2374, landmark legislation establishing a California designation for Asian American & Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANHPI-Serving Institutions).
The signing marks a historic step for AANHPI students in California higher education by formally recognizing colleges and universities that demonstrate an intentional commitment to serving and supporting AANHPI students. The new designation will help elevate institutions investing in academic resources, culturally responsive programs, student services, and pathways designed to improve student success.
“This is a historic moment for AANHPI students and communities across California,” said Assemblymember Mike Fong, Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee and Chair of the Asian American & Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. “For generations, AANHPI students have contributed to the strength and diversity of California’s colleges and universities, yet the unique experiences and challenges within our incredibly diverse communities have too often been overlooked. With AB 2374, California is affirming that these students deserve to be seen, supported, and provided the resources they need to succeed.”
California is home to one of the nation’s largest and most diverse AANHPI populations, representing communities with distinct cultures, languages, immigration histories, and educational experiences. Despite stereotypes that often portray AANHPI students as uniformly successful, significant disparities in educational access and outcomes persist across AANHPI communities.
The establishment of a California designation is particularly significant amid uncertainty surrounding federal support for Minority-Serving Institutions. By creating its own designation in state law, California is establishing a lasting framework to recognize the institutions serving AANHPI students and reinforce the importance of continued investment in their success.
With Governor Newsom’s signature, AB 2374 will take effect January 1, 2027.
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Assemblymember Mike Fong represents the 49th Assembly District, which includes the cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, South Pasadena and Temple City, and the unincorporated areas of Pasadena and San Gabriel. He serves as the Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee and Chair of the Asian American & Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus.
