By Madeline Pumariega, Miami Dade College

In today’s knowledge economy it is our responsibility as education leaders to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to achieve their academic and career goals. While education is often described as the great equalizer, we must focus on how we can ensure it truly serves as a gateway to opportunity for all students, particularly those from underserved communities.

Miami Dade College (MDC) proudly serves over 125,000 students in our community, enrolling more Hispanic undergraduate students than any other college or university in the nation. We are dedicated to serving students from all backgrounds and walks of life, offering enriching learning experiences that empower their success both at MDC and beyond. As we continue to build upon our commitment to being the on-ramp to the American dream, we remain focused on advancing best practices that enhance support for every student who comes to us with aspirations.

Expanding Access and Financial Support

Making sure every student has access to a world-class education, no matter their economic background, is key to creating an environment where academic excellence and success can thrive. As a first-generation Cuban American, I’ve witnessed firsthand how transformative a college education can be in one’s life. At Miami Dade College, more than 60 percent of our students are also first-generation, and we take great pride in the fact that almost 98 percent of them graduate debt-free.

This success is driven by our commitment to supporting underserved communities through innovative scholarship programs that break down financial barriers. More than 10,000 students across Miami-Dade County benefit from these opportunities, including our growing Presidential and Rising Scholars Programs, made possible by the Griffin Scholarship Fund. Since its launch in 2021, more than 1,400 students have graduated from these personalized programs, which offer not only financial support but also curated co-curricular experiences. Students also receive access to mentorship and networking opportunities that equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive both academically and professionally.

Supporting the Holistic Student

Supporting the whole student means strengthening the processes, practices and services that guide individuals through their academic and career pathways. By leveraging technology, data and best-in-class strategies, colleges can ensure that every student has the tools needed to thrive throughout their educational journey. Offering flexible learning modalities—whether online, hybrid or in-person—allows students to balance their education with work, family and other responsibilities.

A critical aspect of this support at Miami Dade College is maintaining a curriculum that is both agile and market-aligned. Through collaboration with industry partners in fields like technology, education and healthcare, MDC ensures that its programs lead to high-demand, high-wage jobs. Partnerships with organizations such as Microsoft, IBM, Blackstone, Apple, and Tesla not only help shape our curriculum but also provide students with valuable opportunities for internships and hands-on training. This collaboration equips MDC students with the skills and experiences necessary to succeed both in college and in the competitive job market, ultimately preparing them to meet the evolving demands of our community.

The Future of Education Lies in Personalization

What do Uber, Postmates and Amazon have in common? They excel at meeting their customers’ needs. With advancements in artificial intelligence, colleges now have the opportunity to tailor learning experiences to individual student needs. In an era where personalization and customer satisfaction drive success, it’s essential for colleges to embrace personalized learning experiences where students are placed at the center of decision-making processes. At MDC we aim to create a curated educational journey that reflects each student’s unique abilities and aspirations. Through personalization, we ensure that every student, including those from underserved communities, has access to the support and resources needed to thrive. From the moment a student enrolls, they are paired with a dedicated advisor who stays with them throughout their entire journey. Whether it’s financial coaching, internship opportunities, or academic support, we make sure students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed.

As we continue to implement and refine our strategies, we remain committed to being responsive to the needs of our community and students. By being data-driven and leveraging metrics to guide our efforts, we can redefine what it means to serve our diverse population. Together, let’s ensure that education remains a true gateway to opportunity for every individual.

Why it matters

These steps could create a more inclusive higher education landscape, better serving all students:

• Recognition: Acknowledge diverse student populations, including working learners.

• Regulation: Implement an “ander pause” to ensure policies work for all students.

• Collaboration: Include diverse voices in policy development.

The big picture

A “better with” approach, rather than “better than,” encourages institutions to collaborate and improve education for all learners.

What’s next

The President’s Forum aims to be a leading voice for working learners, advocating for supportive policies and sharing best practices.

The bottom line

Embracing diverse educational models and student needs could significantly impact how education is delivered and accessed.