Faculty Spotlight: Mike Hoa Nguyen

Current research focus

My research critically examines the benefits and consequences of racialized public policy instruments in expanding and/or constraining educational systems. I focus specifically on how these dynamics shape access, learning, opportunity, and success within and beyond schools for students of color. I aim to better articulate how race-conscious federal policy can reach its potential in education, and fulfill its promise to address pervasive inequalities for underserved and underrepresented populations and regions within the United States. Additionally, I’m committed to applying my research to inform and advance public policy and institutional practice.

Recent publication

Serving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Students: Examining How Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander–Serving Institutions Build Students’ Capacities in the Review of Higher Education.

Favorite course to teach

I love teaching my class on Minority-Serving Institutions (MSI). MSIs are unique in their ability to support the educational advancement of students of color. Today, there are 11 different U.S. Department of Education MSI designations that offer resources for some of the most racially and ethnically diverse colleges and universities across the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. Approximately one in five postsecondary institutions are eligible for funding under an MSI designation, yet more than half of all undergraduate students of color are enrolled in such colleges and universities. They are the backbone of American higher education and thus require greater investment from policymakers.

Mike Hoa Nguyen and Odorico San Nicolas presenting research at the US Department of Education

Mike and Odorico San Nicolas (NYU PhD student) presenting their research on MSIs and AANAPISIs at the US Department of Education in October 2024

On being part of the Creating a Just Society: Equity & Belonging faculty cluster

I get to work with some of the most amazing, dedicated, and brilliant people as part of this cluster. From my colleagues who were hired alongside me, to the faculty who developed the cluster so that we could be here, and let’s not forget the amazing team at CFA. They all inspire me every day, and I’m grateful to work alongside each person towards the collective goal of educational equity.

A living or historical person I’d like to meet

I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to meet a few people that I admire, Yuri Kochiyama being one. In addition, it would be an honor to break bread with Grace Lee Boggs and Thurgood Marshall. Their wisdom and actions have shaped the trajectory of our country for the better. And, wouldn’t it be cool to meet George Lucas?

How I’d choose to make a living if I couldn’t work in academics

I feel so lucky to have this job—something that I’ve dreamed about since I was 17. And in addition, I’ve been privileged to have had many other careers, including serving as a staffer in Congress. But if I could not work as an academic, I think you would find me working in a motorcycle shop or on the set of a Star Wars project!

Mike Hoa Nguyen standing next to a motorcycle in front of the Channel Islands National Park visitor center

I aim to better articulate how race-conscious federal policy can reach its potential