Julian Vasquez Heilig – West Michigan 25 most influential Latinos
Julian Vasquez Heilig
Provost and Vice President
Western Michigan University
As the first Latino provost and vice president at Western Michigan University, Julian Vasquez Heilig is making a deep impact in West Michigan’s Hispanic community.
Under Vasquez’s leadership in Academic Affairs, the university has seen a 12% increase in first-year Latinx enrollment, plus a notable 4% increase in Latinx student retention.
“This success is a testament to our collective effort to create a welcoming and supportive environment where Latino students not only enroll but also thrive and complete their degrees,” he said. “I believe in fostering a community where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.”
Under the Grow-Your-Own (GYO) programs, Vasquez’s department works alongside the College of Education and Human Development and local school districts, to boost enrollment of future teachers. Since 2023, the program has boosted future teacher enrollment by 30%, and almost 15% of them are Latino — three times the proportion in the state of Michigan.
“This program not only addresses the teacher shortage but also ensures that Latino students see themselves represented in the teaching workforce, creating a more inclusive and relatable educational environment,” he said.
Vasquez’s nearly two-decade journey in academia includes various leadership roles and a “robust body” of research focused on K-12 education, curriculum, policy and leadership.
His research addresses the opportunities and challenges faced by Latinos and has been published in such prestigious journals and books as the Journal of Latinos and Education, Harvard Educational Review, Multicultural Education Review, Education and Urban Society and Teachers College Record.
“My work continues to be driven by the goal of supporting Latino students and addressing systemic barriers to their success,” he said.”I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this field and to work alongside dedicated professionals in West Michigan who share a commitment to educational excellence and equity.
