ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book. This book begins to lay the groundwork for conducting further studies on Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). As HSIs continue to provide opportunities to large proportions of historically underrepresented students to pursue a college education, it is critical that more research address these institutions as organizational contexts that are shaping the landscape of American higher education The book aims to provide new research and to advance the study of HSIs as complex organizations as they undergo change and respond to external pressures, including demographic change, and increased institutional accountability. It illustrates emerging research shifts in axiology, ontology, epistemology, and methodology in the study of HSIs. The shift in axiology is reflected in emphasizing the assets that HSIs have and how these institutions contribute both the individual and social benefits of higher education to society.
