Hermanas Unidas de UCSB, also known as HaU de UCSB, is a recognized campus organization at the University of California, Santa Barbara. HaU de UCSB is the second chapter established in a post-secondary institution following the structure of its Hermana chapter at UC Berkeley (1994). Additionally, HaU de UCSB branches off the statewide nonprofit Hermanas Unidas Incorporated.
HaU de UCSB is dedicated to the advancement of young Latinas into academic scholars, community leaders, and professionals. Our principal objective is to encourage the overall success of our members by easing their respective transitions into university life. We strive to create a supportive, unified, and tolerant atmosphere that drives our members to pursue their highest ambitions.
HaU aims to provide leadership opportunities and resources for Chicana/Latina students. As well as instill the values represented through our three pillars of success- academics, community service, and collegiate networking. Through these three pillars members aim to break down cultural stereotypes and embody our organizational motto "Poder de la Mujer."
Additionally, HaU de UCSB is the only chapter who has established an annual outreach program.Making Educational Networks That Open Roads (M.E.N.T.O.R.) is a three-day, two-night program in which Hermanas Unidas de UCSB select and invite three underrepresented California high schools to the university. Twenty-five students from each of the three high schools our selected through an application process. One of our goals is that M.E.N.T.O.R. students will create networks with other high school students, current UCSB students, and faculty. We emphasize the importance of a higher education at a four-year university either immediately or after high school, or through transfer programs at community and city colleges. As of 2018, HaU de UCSB has hosted students for 17 years. We have outreached to 52 schools and have helped and encouraged 1,280 students.