Why community colleges can’t sit this one out
It is no secret that the past year has presented challenges for higher education at the federal level. Colleges have had to deal with a slew of executive orders, cuts or freezes to key grant…
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Reawakening the civic mission of community
Community colleges were founded on the conviction that higher education should serve as a public good — open, inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens. Emerging from the democratic ideals of access, equity…
A Marine’s new mission: Building military pathways for today’s students
As Veterans Day approaches, we pause to honor the men and women who have served our nation with courage and commitment. But for many veterans, the spirit of service doesn’t end with their military careers….
You’ve won the lottery jackpot! Now what?
Dear winner of the Mega Millions lottery jackpot: Congratulations, and WOW! After the longest streak without a jackpot winner since the game began in 2002, with a haul of $843 million, even after federal and…
Washington Watch: Rulemaking panel in sync on loan changes
The U.S. Education Department (ED) on Thursday wrapped up its second and final negotiated-rulemaking meeting focused on student loan programs to address changes directed by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Despite significant debate around…
Expanding broadband access as a catalyst for economic stability
Access to high-speed internet has become as essential to modern life as electricity or clean water. In today’s economy, broadband connectivity is the foundation for education, employment, healthcare and innovation. That is why I am…
Linking economic development with workforce development
While most community college leaders verbally connect workforce and economic development, there is often little understanding beyond asserting this connection. As a result, community colleges have been unable to articulate a vision that emphasizes economic…
AACC comments on proposed changes to ‘E-App’
In a letter this week to the U.S. Education Department (ED) on proposed changes to the application colleges use to participate in federal student aid programs (called the E-App), the American Association of Community Colleges…
When every pocket becomes a supercomputer
When I walk across our campuses, I see students and employees engaged with their mobile phones, tablets and laptops. Each of those devices is now a portal not just to information, but to intelligence. With…
Higher education’s talent pipeline is clogged with half-finished doctorates
With a new academic year in full swing, millions of students are just setting out on their college journeys. But for many of their professors, advisors and mentors, an important academic journey of their own…