The Computing Alliance for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (CA-HSI) was formed in 2004 as a grassroots effort to increase the number of Hispanic students who pursue and complete baccalaureate and advanced degrees in the Computer and Information Sciences and Engineering (CISE) areas. Over the last fifteen years through NSF Minority Institution Infrastructure (MII) funding, the Alliance members have developed programs to address recruitment and retention of Hispanics at all educational levels as well as development of research programs. Many of the interventions funded by the NSF MII program have made a difference in the number of students graduating in baccalaureate programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) areas, but the full impact from bridging to doctorate interventions will not be seen for at least ten years because of the lag due to time to degree. The inspiration for the Alliance came from the need to establish a grassroots effort to unify and strengthen computing research and education among HSIs, and the inspiration for its organization came from the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT). CA-HSI received funding from the National Science Foundation Broadening Participation in Computing program in March 2006 to formally establish the Alliance.

The figure presents the organization of CA-HSI. The Alliance brings together HSIs at its core. An external Advisory Board reviews the activities and efforts of the Alliance. Based on membership reports and analysis of data, the Advisory Board will make recommendations to the Alliance regarding current and new initiatives, funding, and concerns. The Executive Council consists of John Fernandez (TAMU-CC), Ann Q. Gates (UTEP), and Nestor Rodriguez (UPR-M). The Executive Council manages the day-to-day operations of the Alliance. The Alliance includes faculty from Research Institutions (RIs) who share the core purpose of the group and who will work at establishing collaborations with HSIs. The Social Science Network is a core of social scientists and others who study the recruitment, retention, and advancement of Hispanic students and faculty. The Alliance is establishing collaborations with national efforts from industry and professional organizations as well as industry partners who share its mission and support diversity initiatives.