Miami, FL — The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) and Miami Dade College (MDC) announced a new partnership focused at expanding educational, leadership, and public policy opportunities for Hispanic students across South Florida. The announcement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a student pipeline into CHLI’s distinguished leadership and fellowship programs.
The partnership connects MDC—one of the most diverse and accessible higher education institutions in the nation—with CHLI’s mission to advance Hispanic leadership, expand economic opportunity, and prepare future leaders for the private and public sector. The partnership will create new pathways for MDC students to participate in CHLI’s Global Leaders Internship Program, engage with national policy discussions, and join a far-reaching network of current and former public- and private-sector leaders.
Under the partnership, MDC students will have access to dedicated information sessions, application workshops, a reserved slot for CHLI’s Fall Global Leaders Internship cohort, and expanded engagement opportunities with CHLI events, conferences, and the CHLI Purple Line Podcast.
“Miami Dade College embodies the values of opportunity, access, and leadership that CHLI champions,” said CHLI Chairwoman, The Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, who is a graduate of MDC alongside her late father and brother. “Through this partnership, we are opening new doors for students who will become the next wave of Hispanic leaders in public service, business, and beyond. We are proud to work with MDC to empower college students who are ready to lead with purpose and integrity.”
MDC will support student recruitment, promotion of CHLI programs, and institutional engagement from faculty, staff, and its influential alumni network.
“Miami Dade College is committed to preparing students to lead in a global, diverse, and rapidly changing world,” said Miami Dade College President, Madeline Pumariega. “Partnering with CHLI strengthens that mission by giving our students direct access to national leadership experiences, public policy exposure, and opportunities that elevate their personal and professional trajectories. We are excited for what this collaboration will unlock for MDC’s talented students.”
The partnership underscores both institutions’ shared commitment to leadership development, diversity of thought, and empowerment of Hispanic communities across the United States.
ABOUT CHLI:
The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) is the premier organization founded by Members of Congress to advance the Hispanic Community’s Economic Progress with a focus on Social Responsibility and Global Competitiveness.
ABOUT MIAMI DADE COLLEGE:
Miami Dade College is the nation’s most diverse institution of higher education, known for its commitment to access, academic excellence, and community empowerment. MDC prepares students for success through high-quality education, workforce development, and leadership opportunities that reflect the needs of a global and interconnected world.