Lulac National Educational Service Center

In 1968, a San Francisco LULAC council developed a financial aid and college admissions outreach program designed to assist academically gifted but disadvantaged, low-income youth gain admission to college. Based on the success of this program the LULAC National Office submitted a grant proposal in 1973 to provide these services on a national level and shortly after established LNESC as a separately incorporated entity with its own governing board and independent control of its programs.

In 1975, LNESC created the LULAC National Scholarship Fund (LNSF) which solicits funds from major corporations to supply scholarships for Hispanic students. The program was expanded in 1976 to involve local LULAC councils by matching their fundraising efforts with funds from corporate grants. At present, approximately 60 LULAC councils participate in the program and over 25 corporations provide matching funds.

In recent years, the LNESC Washington Youth Leadership Seminar has grown substantially and now brings 50+ outstanding Hispanic high school students to Washington, for a four day leadership seminar every October.

Overall through our education and technology centers nationwide, LNESC has served over 500,000 students, sent 150,000 students on to college, and awarded over $20 million in scholarships. LNESC’s results are made possible by a network of dedicated field staff, top-notch teachers, over 90 school partners, and the support of LULAC.