The Connecticut Association of Latinos in Higher Education (CALAHE) is dedicated to promoting and advocating full access, retention and participation of Latinos/Latinas throughout Connecticut higher education.

About CALAHE

Membership

Upcoming Events

John Soto Golf Classic
John Soto Golf Classic
Scholarship Event
Scholarship Event

CALAHE Scholarships Make a Difference

CALAHE is delighted to be able to offer scholarship opportunities to incoming freshman students and college undergraduate students. We hope that we will be able to assist you in defraying some of your college costs. Please review the scholarship eligibility criteria carefully to see if you qualify.

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Receiving the CALAHE Scholarship has made a huge difference in my college journey in ways that go far beyond finances. This scholarship means a lot to me. It reminds me that my hard work and the obstacles I’ve overcome are being recognized. Knowing someone believed in me has been empowering; it’s shown me that I belong here and that my voice matters. It’s also pushed me to keep moving forward even when things get difficult. 

The CALAHE Scholarship allowed me to meet the president of my institution, Dr. Zulma Toro at CCSU. Since she is Hispanic, she wanted to meet me, and other recipient Melany Patino, t talk about our experience as Hispanics at CCSU, as well as areas of improvement and future career goals. By speaking face to face with her, I realized that if I kept achieving good grades, made connections, joined organizations, and became the best version of myself during college, that would not be the last time I spoke to her face to face. This realization motivated me to stay focused and involved, and to make the most out of my college career.

I want future CALAHE Scholarship recipients and supporters to know that this award has truly made a difference in my life. It has helped me in so many ways academically, personally, and emotionally. The support from CALAHE reminded me that I’m not alone in this journey and that there are people who believe in my potential. To future recipients, I want to say: don’t be afraid to share your story and what brought you here. Your experiences, struggles, and accomplishments all matter. This scholarship is more than just financial help—it’s a reminder that your voice and your journey deserve to be heard.

Member Spotlight

Dr. Jesse M. Bernal, Ph.D.

Western Connecticut State University is pleased to announce Dr. Jesse M. Bernal, Ph.D., as its 10th president. A nationally respected higher education leader with more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Bernal brings a strong commitment to equity centered student success, financial sustainability, and academic excellence. Dr. Bernal previously served as Vice President for Strategy and Chief of Staff at Grand Valley State University and has held state and system-level leadership roles supporting student access and achievement. A first generation college graduate, he is deeply committed to expanding opportunities for all WCSU students. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for WCSU as the university advances its mission and impact across Connecticut and beyond.

Member Spotlight

Grissel Benitez Hodge, Past President

CALAHE holds a special place in my heart. As the only Puerto Rican working in higher education administration in New London as far back as the mid-seventies, it was the compadres y comadres that I met through CALAHE that gave me hope for both professional and personal growth. My best lessons came from watching the work in the trenches done by many of you like Pete, Wilson, Yvette, Faye, Luis, Myrna, María and many others. The sense of community and belonging that CALAHE fostered made a profound impact during challenging times. I am grateful for the enduring friendships and support network that continue to inspire me today.

Member Spotlight

Daniel G. Lugo

Daniel G. Lugo began his service as Trinity College’s 23rd president on July 1, 2025. He came to Trinity from Queens University of Charlotte where he led initiatives to strengthen enrollment and institutional branding, expand community engagement, develop multidisciplinary academic programs, advance student wellness, and integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion across campus and into the surrounding community. Prior to Queens, Lugo served as vice president for college advancement at Colby College where lead the “Dare Northward” comprehensive campaign, which raised $750 million and later expanded to a $1 billion goal. Earlier, he was vice president and dean of admission and financial aid at Franklin & Marshall College, where he led a global talent strategy that increased applications by 45 percent and strengthened academic quality and diversity. He also held senior roles at Carleton College, including leadership of admissions and enrollment marketing initiatives. A first-generation college graduate, Lugo earned a B.A. from Carleton College and a J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.