National Hispanic Institute
About National Hispanic Institute
Founded in the late 1970s by Ernesto Nieto and Gloria de Léon, the National Hispanic Institute recognized an untapped resource within the rapidly expanding U.S. Latino youth population—bright, forward-thinking young minds capable of becoming community leaders. Headquartered in Maxwell, TX, NHI addresses a critical gap: while high-achieving Latino youth receive strong support for college planning and career readiness, few are invited to engage in meaningful community service or develop leadership skills. The organization's mission centers on creating transformative experiences that empower high school and college-age youth to take active roles in community leadership that improves quality of life. Over four decades, NHI has invested in three essential elements: identifying young people with academic potential and leadership promise, developing a continuum of learning experiences that build necessary skills and competencies, and establishing multiple locations and volunteer networks to support ongoing development. The result is a thriving community of thousands of alumni and committed volunteers who understand the enriching and fulfilling nature of service to others. Today, the National Hispanic Institute serves as a bridge between individual potential and community impact, fostering future leaders for the expanding Latino community throughout the United States and Latin America.