Equity versus Excellence: Is the Pursuit of “Tier-1” Status Compatible With Social Justice?

Abstract

This study explored the social justice implications of the transition of a Hispanic-serving Institution (HSI) to a “Tier-1” institution. Interviews and demographic statistics describe a university that has increased its global reach, its enrollment of students of color, and the prestige of the Latinx-majority city in which it is located. Conversely, the institution is declining in its service to low-income students and the local community, and changing expectations for faculty and staff compromise the hiring and retention of marginalized groups such as women and people of color.