Written by Alyssa Diaz

Dr. Sindy Chapa, a passionate researcher, faculty advisor and mentor in the School of Communication, is dedicated to student success. This year, she has expanded her research and student support efforts in new award-winning ways, particularly focusing on the Hispanic and Latino community.

One of Chapa’s accomplishments from this year has been working on the new fourth edition book series, “Hispanic Marketing: The Evolution of the Hispanic Consumer.” This updated edition offers a basis and perspective to understand the development of Hispanics in one of their most difficult time periods. “The recent pandemic’s economic and emotional impacts, as well as anti-Hispanic propaganda in some states, such as Florida, have caused great stress and division among scholars, professionals, and the community in general. The new edition will provide some new development in theories, campaigns and patterns of behavior,” said Chapa.

Another of Chapa’s recent successes is her receipt of the State Farm Grant, which she used to empower students of Latino descent. “To support Latino Students to get higher education in the U.S., the grant supports the [Latin American-Caribbean] Scholarship, allowing students to receive in-state tuition at FSU,” she said. Chapa plans to use the $13,500 grant to help six to seven students and hopes that it will improve their educational experiences.

In alignment with these undertakings, Chapa was granted The Hispanic Heritage Month Distinguished Faculty and Staff Award in November 2023. For Chapa, receiving this award is a personal and professional milestone. “Being honored with The Hispanic Distinguished Faculty Award filled me with great pleasure. It is an acknowledgment of perseverance, devotion and a dedication to academic success,” she said.

“Additionally, I hope that this recognition would encourage parents and students to learn about FSU’s efforts to serve Hispanic students and become an HSI (Hispanic-serving institution),” she said.