Five major higher education associations, including the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), on Thursday launched a national initiative to strengthen student success and highlight the value of a college education.
The National Student Success Project brings together more than 50 colleges and universities around five commitments focused on college value, affordable pathways, academic quality, career preparation and supportive campus communities.
The project comes as students and families increasingly weigh the value of pursuing a college degree. Participating institutions are expected to demonstrate how they are putting the commitments into practice, while recognizing that colleges may take different approaches based on their missions and students. Examples will be featured on the project’s website.
Under the initiative, participating colleges and universities commit to:
- Delivering strong value for students’ investment in education.
- Providing clear and affordable pathways to degrees and other significant credentials.
- Advancing academic excellence through strong teaching and innovative programs.
- Helping students pursue career goals through real-world experiences and guidance.
- Creating supportive communities that promote civil dialogue and respect for others.
“These commitments reflect work already taking place at our colleges and universities,” according to the project’s central statement. “Now is the time to accelerate our progress together.”
Community college voices
Community college leaders have had a significant role in shaping the effort. Five presidents of AACC-member institutions serve on the project’s 19-member advisory board:
- Pam Eddinger of Bunker Hill Community College in Massachusetts
- Stephanie J. Fujii of Arapahoe Community College in Colorado
- Tracy Hartzler of Central New Mexico Community College
- Anne M. Kress of Northern Virginia Community College
- William Serrata of El Paso Community College in Texas
AACC is launching the initiative with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, American Council on Education, Association of American Universities and Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. Strada Education Foundation supports the project.
Showing higher ed’s value
The initiative also seeks to address questions from students and families about the value of higher education. The project’s statement says providing strong value means students complete their programs and “flourish afterwards, equipped with knowledge and skills that can lead to meaningful employment and a life of purpose.”
AACC President and CEO DeRionne Pollard joined the heads of the other four participating higher education associations in emphasizing both student outcomes and the importance of communicating the value of postsecondary education.
“Across America, colleges and universities of all kinds are finding unique ways to achieve a common goal: ensuring their students receive an outstanding education and are prepared to succeed throughout their lives,” the association leaders said in a joint statement.
They added that students, parents, policymakers and the broader public need to understand higher education’s commitment to student success and “the lifelong value of gaining a postsecondary education.”
