Rethinking Rigor in a System Built on Barriers
Why it matters: Higher education often treats difficulty as evidence of rigor. Over time, that has led institutions to defend complexity and friction, even when those obstacles do little to improve learning or student outcomes. The big picture: Making college easier...
REQUIRED READING
Recent Stories
Micro-Credentials: A Flexible Path for Students, but Accountability Gaps Remain
Key takeaway Sara Weissman from Inside Higher Ed discusses how micro-credentials are growing in popularity because they offer students a quicker, more affordable path to gaining job-ready skills compared to traditional degrees. These short-term programs can range from...
Transforming higher ed through collaboration and innovation
Watch the first in a series of short videos detailing our mission to transform higher education.
Adapting for working learners
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the needs of working adult learners are becoming increasingly prominent. As traditional models of higher education adapt to accommodate this growing demographic, leaders in the field are sharing valuable insights on how to...
Compiling Semiconductor Industry-Aligned Programs
Comprehensive Program Compilation Initiative The Presidents Forum is compiling a comprehensive list of programs offered at their institutions that align with the semiconductor manufacturing industry. This effort aims to create a valuable resource that showcases the...
Owens, experts call for accountability in higher ed
Congressman Burgess Owens, Western Governors University President Scott Pulsipher, and American Enterprise Institute Senior Fellow Beth Akers say students deserve improved transparency and accountability in higher education. Student Outcomes Prioritized Higher...
Davenport University’s Prior Learning Program: A Win-Win for Students and Institution
The big picture Davenport University in Michigan has implemented an innovative program to award college credit for students' prior learning and work experience, reducing time and cost to degree completion. Why it matters This approach benefits both students and the...
Rio Salado College’s Best Practices for Supporting Underserved Communities
Rio Salado College's Best Practices for Serving Underserved Communities Why it matters Rio Salado College, founded in 1978, has a long-standing mission to serve underserved communities. The big picture President Kate Smith outlines three key strategies: Flexibility:...
Building Autism-Supportive Institutions
By Dr. Lisa Vollendorf, Empire State University Empire State University (SUNY Empire) has supported, since our founding in 1971, a broad range of students. We proudly help learners of all ages and from all walks of life achieve their educational dreams. As New York’s...
Navigating the Financial Aid Maze: Expert Insights from James Bergeron
James Bergeron, President of the National Council of Higher Education Resources, highlights four key issues in higher education finance: Student loan repayment and on-ramp challenges Legal hurdles facing the SAVE plan Broad student loan forgiveness debates FAFSA...
Best Practices for Expanding Pathways to Success
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...
Introducing “Required Reading”: Your Daily Dose of Higher Education News
We are thrilled to announce the launch of "Required Reading," a new feature on the Presidents Forum website designed to keep you informed about the latest developments in higher education. Every weekday, our team will curate a selection of essential news articles...
CHIPS and Science Act: Major Strides in Reshaping U.S. Semiconductor Manufacturing
In recent months, the federal CHIPS and Science Act has made significant strides in reshaping the landscape of semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. This landmark legislation, signed into law in August 2022, aims to bolster domestic chip production,...
Presidents Forum outlines higher ed innovations for next POTUS
Why it matters Higher Education has struggled to adapt to changing student demographics and needs, emerging technologies, and effective distance education options. The new presidential administration and department of education must energetically engage in practices...
Data-Driven Revolution: Beth Akers on Reshaping Higher Education
From the Inside Sources PodcastThe big picture Beth Akers, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, discusses the critical role of data in improving higher education outcomes and decision-making. Key takeaways Data transparency is crucial: Akers emphasizes...
The Presidents Forum is ramping up its thought leadership initiatives and expanding its reach
What's happening New website launch: (http://presidensforum.org) now serves as a hub for presidential thought leadership, with frequent content updates. Upcoming features: A news aggregation service will offer daily curated higher education articles. Content focus:...
WGU President Advocates for Accountability and Bold Reform
Why it matters Higher education institutions need to be held accountable for student outcomes and embrace innovation to remain relevant and valuable. The big picture President Pulsipher emphasizes two main points: Increasing accountability for outcomes: Institutions...
Delivering Lift
The big picture UMass Global Chancellor David Andrews advises the Department of Education to focus on improving student outcomes and experiences while maintaining accountability. Key Points Challenge legacy metrics like seat time and Carnegie units Rethink "regular...
Why Improving Educational Benefits Is a Good Deal for the Military and Service Members
By Dr. Mark D. Milliron, National University The nation’s population of college students is evolving rapidly, reflecting a broader spectrum of life experiences and responsibilities. Today’s learners are not only pursuing their degrees but are also balancing roles as...
Become a Member
Send us your request or questions about joining the Presidents Forum, and our Communications Director will reach out to you about next steps.
