Logo courtesy of Sacramento State

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Excelencia in Education announced Oct. 27 that California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State) has earned certification as an Intentionally Thriving Institution (ITI)–the highest level of recognition through the Seal of Excelencia–for demonstrating positive impact in preparing Latino, and all, students for success after graduation and connecting them to the workforce. This marks the third time Sacramento State has earned Seal of Excelencia recognition and the first time it is placed among the now 12 institutions to ever receive ITI certification.

“We are preparing record numbers of graduates to leave Sacramento State ready to build lives grounded in independence, health, purpose, joy, and the ability to support their families and communities,” said President Luke Wood. “Earning the Seal and being recognized as an Intentionally Thriving Institution affirms, on a national stage, that our work across recruitment, enrollment, belonging, graduation, and career success is purposeful, informed by data, and delivering real results.”

As one of 21 colleges and universities to earn the Seal in 2026, Sacramento State is accountable for delivering value to students, communities, and the country, reinforcing higher education’s role as an engine of social mobility, economic vitality, and workforce development. From demystifying the application process to providing access to workforce and financial readiness opportunities to making sure all students and families feel included, Sacramento State provides support at every stage of the student experience.

“This Seal is a testament to the work our faculty, staff, and administrators do everyday to make sure Sac State students are supported throughout their college journey and prepared for the careers of their dreams,” said Lilia Contreras, Hispanic Serving Institution director, Student Affairs & Inclusive Excellence at Sacramento State. “As the No. 1 public university in the state capital, Sac State and its Latine students are helping power the region’s economy.”

Only 55 institutions nationwide have earned the Seal of Excelencia, producing outsized positive student impact. Seal-certified institutions represent less than 2% of colleges and universities, yet enroll 16% and graduate 18% of Latino students – and enroll and graduate 8% of all students.

The Seal is a rigorous national certification earned through the intentional alignment of data, evidence-based practices, and leadership, which together lead to student success. Since first earning the Seal six years ago, Sacramento State has sustained continuous improvement in student outcomes and intentionally invested in post-completion success for Latinos, who are representative of today’s post-traditional student majority. In doing so, it is ensuring Latino, and all, students graduate ready for the workforce and civic leadership, thus also strengthening local talent pipelines.

“Seal of Excelencia certified institutions present strength of purpose and impact at a moment of great change in higher education,” said Deborah Santiago, Excelencia in Education co-founder and CEO. “Excelencia is proud to work with these leaders that show us how it looks when students succeed because of their institutions — not despite them. Thanks to the leadership of Intentionally Thriving Institutions in particular, we are cultivating talent that will ensure America’s future.”

Learn more about how Seal of Excelencia certified institutions model the transformation necessary for higher education to ensure Latino, and all, students thrive — and strengthen our nation’s civic leadership and workforce: EdExcelencia.org/seal/seal-excelencia-certified-institutions.