Stanislaus State has earned the Seal of Excelencia, a national certification recognizing colleges and universities for their commitment to helping Latino and all students succeed in college and beyond.

The University earned the distinction on its first application, joining nine other institutions receiving the Seal for the first time in 2026. Stan State is now among just 55 colleges and universities nationwide to hold the Seal, a rigorous certification established by Excelencia in Education, a national organization dedicated to advancing Latino student success in higher education.

Seal-certified institutions represent less than 2% of colleges and universities nationwide yet collectively enroll 16% and graduate 18% of Latino students. Additionally, they enroll and graduate 8% of all students nationwide.

“I’m absolutely thrilled that Stan State has earned the Seal of Excelencia. Que orgullo!” said President Britt Rios-Ellis. “This is a historic achievement for our University. It affirms that at Stan State – third in the nation in social mobility and high in academic quality rankings – we truly champion Latine students as well as a diverse portfolio of student groups. Earning the Seal demonstrates our enduring commitment to our majority Latine population. The Seal truly belongs to every member of our Warrior community who works to honor students in ways that are contextually resonant and reflective of the cultural capital and perseverance Guerreros bring to our campus community.”

Stan State is among 21 institutions earning certification or recertification in 2026. Ten institutions received the Seal for the first time, seven earned recertification and four were certified as Intentionally Thriving Institutions, demonstrating sustained progress in preparing students for success after graduation and connecting them to workforce opportunities.

“Congratulations to Stanislaus State on earning the Seal of Excelencia from Excelencia in Education,” said U.S. Rep. Josh Harder. “This is a strong recognition of the University’s commitment to helping Valley students succeed in college, careers and civic life, and I’m proud to be a partner in supporting that important work. I can’t wait to see all that our students will go on to accomplish with the help of this amazing institution.”

Established in 2018, the Seal of Excelencia is a rigorous certification that recognizes institutions demonstrating intentional alignment of data, evidence-based practices and leadership to improve student outcomes before and beyond graduation.