January 5, 2005

Dear Senators McCain and Inouye:

On behalf of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), I am respectfully requesting that the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee confirm the nomination of Mr. Carlos Gutierrez as United States Secretary of Commerce.

Mr. Gutierrez has a distinguished career in business and commerce.  His administrative and visionary leadership, most recently as CEO of the Kellogg Company, will be an invaluable asset in guiding the nation’s continued economic growth and expansion both domestically and globally.

As an immigrant to the United States who has risen through the ranks to the top of one of America’s premier corporations, Mr. Gutierrez truly personifies the American Dream.  His confirmation as the next Unites States Secretary of Commerce will not only validate his outstanding career, but will benefit our country through his many talents and superb expertise as a business leader of international stature.

HACU is a national organization which represents more than 395 colleges and universities that collectively serve more than two-thirds of the 2 million Hispanic students in higher education.

HACU and the United States Department of Commerce have established a strong partnership which supports a variety of educational activities, including the HACU National Internship Program, the country’s largest Hispanic college internship program.  In addition, the Department of Commerce annually provides HACU with important resources for conferences, outreach and career development opportunities for our member Hispanic-Serving Institutions.  We look forward to working with Mr. Gutierrez as Secretary of Commerce in those areas that will increase access and success for Hispanics in higher education.

Again, HACU urges your confirmation of the nomination of Mr. Carlos Gutierrez as United States Secretary of Commerce.

Respectfully,

Antonio R. Flores

President and CEO