Since 2011, the Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation has worked to advance educational equity for Hispanic and Latino Americans, and close gaps in college access and attainment through scholarships, policy advocacy, and expanded opportunities in higher education. In 2015, the Foundation founded the Cisneros Institute (formerly The Cisneros Hispanic Leadership Institute) at George Washington University to provide talented students with financial, academic, and social support. Through initiatives like Caminos al Futuro—a summer program for high school seniors in Washington, D.C.—and events such as the Immigration Film Fest and Immigrant Well-Being Conference, the Institute has cultivated a generation of leaders and produced Fulbright finalists and numerous success stories.
The Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation has expanded its mission of access and opportunity to include support for U.S. veterans and military-affiliated students, reflecting Gilbert Cisneros’ lifelong commitment as both a veteran and education advocate. In 2025, the Foundation launched the Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation Office of Military-Affiliated Students Directors Innovation Fund at Brown University. The fund strengthens programs within the university’s Office of Military-Affiliated Students (OMAS), helping veterans successfully transition from military service to academic life through mentorship, professional development, and community building.
One of the fund’s first initiatives supports the Cisneros Veteran Scholars Program, which pairs incoming veteran students with trained peer mentors who share similar backgrounds and goals. These mentors help new students navigate campus life, access support services, and engage in professional opportunities—creating a sense of belonging and confidence from day one. During the 2025-26 year, Brown welcomed its largest class of military-affiliated students since World War II, marking a milestone in veteran inclusion in higher education. Through this partnership, the Cisneros Foundation is honoring Gilbert Cisneros’ vision of empowering those who have served our nation to pursue education, leadership, and lifelong success.
The Gilbert & Jacki Cisneros Foundation cultivates a community that supports Latino education. We aim to identify and contribute to the key factors that lead to Latino student success.
By promoting effective education policy and spreading awareness of the distinct circumstances that affect first-generation, college-bound Latino students, we aim to create an inclusive, effective, and sustainable environment.
