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To watch on our YouTube channel, click here. Tune in as Dr. Mordecai Brownlee sits down with Dr. Brenda Hellyer, Chancellor of San Jacinto College, for a conversation on leadership, workforce development, innovation, and keeping community colleges relevant in a rapidly changing economy. This engaging episode is the latest in a series with our content partner, Discovering Your Mission with Dr. Mordecai. The discussion reflects on Hellyer's unexpected journey from accounting to higher education leadership and how preparation, calculated risk, and a willingness to say yes shaped her career. She shares why today's community college leaders must move beyond managing institutions to becoming conveners, partners, and problem-solvers within their communities. The chat also explores how San Jacinto College works directly with industry to redesign programs around real workforce needs, including its expansion into biotechnology and strategically selected applied bachelor's degrees. Hellyer also discusses creating a culture of belonging for students and employees, approaching artificial intelligence without sacrificing human judgment and critical thinking, and why staying relevant means making sure your institution has a seat at the table when decisions about the future of your community are being made. During the podcast Hellyer consistently directs the conversation back to people and purpose: seeing potential in others, creating opportunities they may not yet see for themselves, and using leadership to help people advance. Listen in and enjoy this episode.  KEY POINTS: Hellyer's unexpected journey from accounting to leading San Jacinto College Why preparation, calculated risk, and saying yes can open leadership opportunities How the role of community college presidents has expanded beyond managing an institution Why staying relevant requires listening to industry and having a seat at the table How San Jacinto College turned workforce gaps into major petrochemical and biotechnology partnerships Building belonging by making students and employees feel seen, supported, and connected Why applied bachelor's degrees should be driven by demonstrated workforce demand Balancing AI adoption with human judgment, critical thinking, and technical expertise Leadership as helping people see opportunities they may not yet see for themselves   QUOTABLES:   "It is about stepping into some uncomfortable times and really trying to understand and connect." – Dr. Brenda Hellyer   "If we're not at the table, that tells me we've lost our relevance." – Dr. Brenda Hellyer GUEST RESOURCES: Dr. Brenda Lang Hellyer, Chancellor, San Jacinto College Office of the Chancellor   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Transcription is available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

Can HBCUs Lead the AI Revolution? Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor, UAPB To watch on our YouTube channel, click here. In this episode of In The Margins, we sit down with Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), to explore how leadership, innovation, and purpose-driven strategy can transform not just an institution, but an entire region. Drawing from his foundation as a classroom teacher, Graham shares how his leadership is rooted in relationships, data-informed decision-making, and a commitment to developing the whole student. He unpacks UAPB's bold vision to become a nationally recognized, preeminent land-grant institution, serving as a catalyst for talent development, innovation, and economic renewal across the Arkansas Delta. The conversation, with The EDU Ledger host Ralph Newell, dives into the university's approach to artificial intelligence, workforce readiness, and research, highlighting initiatives like the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics (CAIDA) and groundbreaking work in aquaculture and agriculture. Graham also outlines what it takes to achieve Carnegie R2 designation, including difficult institutional decisions, program alignment, and a shift toward transdisciplinary, problem-focused research. At its core, this episode is about redefining student success, embracing change in higher education, and building systems that prepare students to lead, solve problems, and drive economic impact. KEY POINTS: Graham's leadership philosophy rooted in teaching, relationships, and data Why leaders must enter institutions as learners, not with preconceived models AI as a tool, and why problem literacy matters more than technical skills The push to demystify AI and build data-informed cultures through CAIDA What it takes to reach Carnegie R2: research investment, doctoral output, and alignment Why institutions must make hard decisions about outdated academic programs The shift toward "braided funding" and less reliance on federal dollars Redefining student success as holistic development beyond graduation metrics UAPB's vision to drive talent, innovation, and economic renewal across the Arkansas Delta   QUOTABLES:   "The most important skill that there is, is relationship building." – Dr. Anthony Graham   "AI may not take your job, but someone who knows how to use AI may take your job." – Dr. Anthony Graham   "It really is about lifting all people so that the region thrives." – Dr. Anthony Graham GUEST RESOURCES: Our Chancellor - University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode of In The Margins, Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, host of Discovering Your Mission, sits down with Jee Hang Lee, President and CEO of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), for a timely and unfiltered conversation on the future of community colleges, leadership, and student success. Drawing from his journey from Capitol Hill to leading one of the most influential organizations in higher education, Lee shares a national perspective on the growing pressures facing community colleges, from funding uncertainty and political complexity to increasing competition across the education landscape. He challenges leaders to rethink how institutions define value, emphasizing that programs must translate into real economic opportunity for students. Their conversation dives deep into what separates high-performing governing boards, the evolving role of college presidents, and why leadership today requires far more than academic expertise. Lee also unpacks the importance of long-term strategic thinking, workforce alignment, and building systems that truly support students, especially those navigating complex life circumstances. At its core, this episode is a call to action: for leaders to stay mission-driven, think systemically, and ensure that community colleges remain not just a point of access but a pathway to lasting success. KEY POINTS: Jee Hang Lee's journey from public policy to leading ACCT and advocating for community colleges The growing pressure to prove the economic value of higher education programs in a post-pandemic world Why community college programs must align with real wages and workforce outcomes The shift toward stackable learning and incremental education pathways for modern students The 3 core governance principles (duty of care, loyalty, obedience) that define high-performing boards How funding instability and state-level decisions are reshaping institutional strategy The expanding competition from four-year institutions entering workforce and associate degree spaces Why today's college presidents must operate as advocates, fundraisers, communicators, and crisis managers The importance of long-term strategic planning, including demographic shifts and enrollment pipelines Why community colleges may be the "first and last door" to higher education for many students Leadership requires a mission beyond compensation to sustain impact and longevity QUOTABLES: "We have to do a better job of showcasing the earning potential… and really showcase that there is substantive value for our students." – Jee Hang Lee   "Politics has always… permeated public institutions of higher education." – Jee Hang Lee   "You have to have a grounding of why you do your job." – Jee Hang Lee   "Providing that opportunity to build your educational platform… is something that we should be focusing on."   – Jee Hang Lee GUEST RESOURCES: Jee Hang Lee | ACCT ItsDrMordecai.com - Official Website of Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode of In The Margins, we sit down with Dr. Michael Baston, President of Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) and recipient of the 2026 EDU Ledger Champions Award, for a timely conversation on leadership, student success, and the future of community colleges. Drawing from his journey as a first-generation college student and former public interest attorney, Baston reflects on how personal experience shaped his commitment to building institutions that don't leave students to "figure it out" on their own. He shares how community colleges serve as powerful engines of opportunity, particularly for working, adult, and underserved learners navigating complex life demands alongside their education. The conversation, with host David Pluviose, explores how institutional design, not just intention, drives student outcomes. From rethinking enrollment and retention strategies to embedding support directly into academic pathways, Baston outlines a bold, systems-level approach to improving completion, scaling support, and aligning education with workforce realities. He also challenges leaders to move beyond performative partnerships and toward outcome-driven collaborations with K–12 systems, employers, and transfer institutions, which ensure students are supported from entry through career. This conversation is a call for intentional leadership: building culture first, designing systems around real student needs, and creating pathways that turn access into lasting opportunity.   KEY POINTS:   Baston's journey from public interest law to higher education leadership  First-generation student experiences highlight the need for institutions to provide structured support Retention is a primary driver of enrollment growth Institutions must design systems that meet students where they are, especially working and part-time learners Embedding academic, financial, and career planning into programs is essential for completion Traditional higher education systems often create unnecessary barriers (language, bureaucracy, and process) Strong partnerships must produce measurable outcomes for students Community colleges should align with workforce needs, from upskilling to employer partnerships Leadership requires building institutional culture before implementing large-scale change   QUOTABLES:   "The power of possibility happens in community colleges for communities." – Dr. Michael Baston   "I think about all the stuff I didn't have, all the mentors I didn't have, all of the organized support I didn't have when I came into college." – Dr. Michael Baston   "We then have to design an institution that puts people in the best possible position to succeed." – Dr. Michael Baston   "For too many colleges, it's easier to get out of school than to get in school." – Dr. Michael Baston   "Partnerships are not taking pictures in front of banners… they have to have real outcomes." – Dr. Michael Baston   GUEST RESOURCES: Dr. Michael Baston   Awards/Honors > Champions Award | The EDU Ledger   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this powerful episode of In The Margins, our newest content partner Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, host of Discovering Your Mission, sits down with Dr. Donna J. Nicol, Associate Dean for Personnel and Curriculum in the College of Liberal Arts at California State University Long Beach (CSULB), and author of Black Woman on Board, to explore the remarkable leadership story of Dr. Claudia Hampton – the first Black woman appointed to the California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees. Drawing from her research and personal reflections, Nicol unpacks how Hampton navigated the complex power dynamics of higher education governance during a pivotal era for affirmative action and institutional access. Rather than relying solely on confrontation, Hampton employed what Nicol describes as "sly civility" or a strategic leadership approach that balanced diplomacy, influence, and long-term vision to expand opportunity for underrepresented students. The conversation moves beyond biography to examine broader lessons about leadership inside systems not originally designed for inclusion. From board politics and racial dynamics to strategic advocacy and mission-driven service, Nicol offers a powerful framework for emerging leaders navigating institutions today. At its core, this episode explores the enduring question of leadership: when to speak, when to build capital, and how to use influence to create lasting change. KEY POINTS:  Nicol's academic journey and her commitment to equity and leadership in higher education How Black Woman on Board uncovers the overlooked story of CSU trustee Dr. Claudia Hampton Hampton as the first Black woman appointed to the CSU Board of Trustees  Understanding "sly civility" through building trust and influence before deploying power Board politics, race, and gender shaped the dynamics of higher education governance in the 1970s and beyond How Hampton strategically negotiated resources and leadership decisions to advance affirmative action and institutional access Effective leadership requires understanding when to speak forcefully and when to build alliances quietly The importance of mission-driven leadership and serving students   QUOTABLES:   "I've always believed that every person has a mission. It's something you discover through experience, through challenge, and through a deep commitment to serving others." – Dr. Mordecai Brownlee   "I stayed with a major that I was passionate about, as opposed to one that I thought might be lucrative." – Dr. Donna J. Nicol   "Sly civility requires you to be civil with the people who have power in order for you to gain access to their institutions." – Dr. Donna J. Nicol   "My personal mission is to provide the greatest good for the greatest number." – Dr. Donna J. Nicol   GUEST RESOURCES: Dr. Donna J. Nicol   ItsDrMordecai.com - Official Website of Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Emelyn dela Peña, President and CEO of NADOHE, for a timely conversation on leadership, mission clarity, and sustaining equity work in a rapidly shifting higher education landscape. Drawing from her personal journey growing up in a diverse Los Angeles community, navigating loss and economic transition, and building a decades-long career across institutions like Stanford, Harvard, and Loyola, dela Peña reflects on the formative experiences that shaped her commitment to access, belonging, and student success. She shares how moments of protest, community support, and witnessing institutional responses to crisis helped define her purpose as an educator and leader. The conversation, with In the Margins, host Ralph Newell, explores the current national climate surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion work, including legal challenges, institutional overcorrections, and the growing role of fear in decision-making. And dela Peña emphasizes the importance of lawful, mission-driven leadership, deep listening, and centering those historically pushed to the margins.  She also outlines her priorities as NADOHE's new president and CEO, including professional development, coalition building, and sustaining a community of practice for equity practitioners navigating uncertainty. At its core, this episode is a call to remain grounded in values, to support the people doing this work, and to remember that changing language should never mean changing commitments to fairness, representation, and opportunity.   KEY POINTS:   dela Peña's diverse upbringing shaped her commitment to inclusion Early advocacy experiences led her to a lifelong career in higher education The pandemic revealed hidden inequities and leadership blind spots Institutions must address structural barriers, not just surface-level access Fear and misinformation are driving institutional overcorrections Lawful, mission-driven leadership remains essential for equity work Compliance often means adapting programs, not eliminating them Eliminating DEI offices can result in loss of community and support systems Coalition building and cross-sector partnerships are key to sustaining the work Students and committed educators remain the greatest source of hope QUOTABLES:   "It was such a wonderful experience to have grown up with all of that diversity… and to be welcomed by so many different kinds of families." — Dr. Emelyn dela Peña  "There's always something under the surface that we need to think about when we are leaders of organizations." — Dr. Emelyn dela Peña    "Our position has always been that we are committed to lawful mission-driven work." — Dr. Emelyn dela Peña    "Our students give me hope… they demand that we live up to the things we say are important to us." — Dr. Emelyn dela Peña    "If we shift language, we don't have to shift values." — Dr. Emelyn dela Peña   RESOURCES:    Emelyn A. dela Peña Named NADOHE President and CEO   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode, The EDU Leger is excited to present the first in a series of content from our newest podcast partner, Discovering Your Mission with Dr. Mordecai.  Tune in as Dr. Mordecai Brownlee welcomes guest Brooke DeRenzis, CEO of the National Skills Coalition, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of work, skills-based hiring, and the evolving role of higher education in an economy defined by rapid change. Drawing on national policy leadership and personal lived experience, DeRenzis explores why skills: technical, digital, and durable have become the foundation of economic mobility and why credentials must evolve to reflect real workforce needs. Their conversation also examines the rise of working learners, including the growing importance of community and technical colleges and the urgent need to design education (and workforce systems) that support lifelong learning. At the center of the discussion is a clear message: workforce training is not a "second chance" system, but a first-choice investment in people, communities, and national prosperity. From skills-based hiring and workforce to equity, policy implementation, and student voice, this episode offers a human-centered, policy-informed look at how investing in skills is essential to building a more inclusive and resilient economy. KEY POINTS:   Skills are the foundation of economic mobility in today's workforce Credentials should validate skills, not act as barriers to opportunity Working learners are now central to the future of higher education Community and technical colleges play a critical role in workforce advancement Skills training should be treated as a first-choice investment, not a fallback option Skills-based hiring expands talent pipelines and reduces inequities Continuous learning and upskilling are essential in an AI-driven economy Equity must be embedded into the workforce and education policy design Student voice and lived experience are critical to effective policy implementation QUOTABLES:   "Jobs that require skills training are the backbone of our economy." – Brooke DeRenzis    "The answer, increasingly, is found in skills and opportunity and in systems that are designed to lift people, not leave them behind." – Dr. Mordecai Brownlee   "Higher education has always played a key role in unlocking opportunity and shared prosperity." – Brooke DeRenzis    "Ninety-two percent of all jobs require at least one digital skill." – Brooke DeRenzis    "Everyone deserves an investment in their potential." – Brooke DeRenzis    GUEST RESOURCES: Brooke DeRenzis - National Skills Coalition ItsDrMordecai.com - Official Website of Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode. In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode of In The Margins, we are joined by Julian Thompson, Senior Director for Strategy Development, and Rev. Dr. Darryl Ann Lai Fang, Assistant Vice President for Transformation Support at the UNCF Institute for Capacity Building, for a deep dive into what long-term sustainability truly requires for HBCUs. As the institute approaches its 20th anniversary, Thompson and Dr. Lai Fang reflect on how UNCF's work has evolved from discrete technical assistance to a holistic, networked transformation model designed to help institutions move from survival to sustained impact. Their conversation with The EDU Ledger host David Pluviose explores executive leadership stability, board governance, data-informed decision-making, and why collaboration (not isolation) is now essential in a volatile political and economic landscape. From change management and presidential support to career pathways, accreditation-aligned initiatives, and the future role of AI in higher education, this episode offers a candid, experience-driven look at how HBCUs can strengthen their foundations without losing their mission.   KEY POINTS   The founding and evolution of the UNCF Institute for Capacity Building as UNCF's innovation arm Why discrete solutions fail, and how holistic transformation drives sustainability The impact of leadership turnover and the urgent need for board governance alignment Findings from UNCF's Stable Leadership report and what it reveals about presidential tenure How networked approaches are replacing siloed decision-making across HBCUs Why institutions are seeking UNCF partnerships beyond funding alone Career pathways, accreditation, and embedding transformation into institutional DNA The next frontier: data strategy, AI readiness, and multiple revenue streams for HBCUs QUOTABLES "HBCUs are a miracle in a certain way — in terms of the way that they've been able to sustain with limited resources and still deliver transcendent value." – Julian Thompson   "Instead of focusing on what institutions do not have, we changed our language to: what can the institution do with what they have?" – Rev. Dr. Darryl Ann Lai Fang    "We're basically waking up every day thinking about the future of HBCUs … about the systems, the policies, the approaches, the partnerships, the technologies, the communities of practice, the cultures, the ways of being that can help HBCUs get to a place where their long-term sustainability is assured." – Julian Thompson   "We cannot continue working as if we are independent. There are healthy dependencies that we need to create." Rev. Dr. Darryl Ann Lai Fang GUEST RESOURCES:   UNCF Report Reveals HBCU Presidents Serve Nearly Two Years Less Than National Average | The EDU Ledger FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

Meet Dr. Kyle Reyes, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and former Chief Inclusion Officer at Utah Valley University, whose work sits at the intersection of student success, cultural understanding, and leadership in politically charged times. In this episode, Reyes explores his groundbreaking framework from his book Lenses of Humanity: How Reflection, Connection, and Empathy Can Heal Our World. Drawing from his own lived experience as a former college dropout and first-generation student advocate, Reyes offers a powerful roadmap for navigating higher education's most difficult conversations – especially amid national DEI rollbacks. His discussion with The EDU Ledger host Ralph Newell also unpacks how campuses can continue to support students when identity-based programs are dismantled, why empathy and genuine inquiry matter more than ever, and what it truly means to lead with humanity in polarized environments. Tune in as Reyes dives into the shifting landscape of student support and practical frameworks for educators in higher education despite political pressures. KEY POINTS:   Reyes's journey from struggling student and graffiti artist to higher-ed leader How his mixed-race upbringing shaped his work in intercultural understanding The origin of Lenses of Humanity and why reframing DEI through humanity is essential Navigating anti-DEI legislation (while still supporting students effectively) The power of storytelling, empathy, and genuine inquiry to bridge ideological divides The role of institutional culture and cross-training in a post-DEI environment Why identity-based support still matters; and how to sustain it without labels The future of TRIO, GEAR UP, and federally funded access programs  Student resilience and the need for holistic advocacy in higher ed QUOTABLES:   "Students can perceive care, and they know authentic care when they see it." – Dr. Kyle Reyes   "I wanted to dedicate my career to helping students become authors of their own stories." – Dr. Kyle Reyes   "This is not some radical agenda. This is a humanity-based effort." – Dr. Kyle Reyes GUEST RESOURCES:   Dr. Kyle A. Reyes - Lenses of Humanity  LINK TO SPECIAL BOOK OFFER:   Purchase The Student Debt Crisis from The EDU Ledger Shop today and receive a signed copy, while supplies last, and a one-year digital subscription to The EDU Ledger. Link: https://shop.theeduledger.com/site/?product=the-student-debt-crisis FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X/Twitter: https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and a live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

Only 16 percent of Native Americans hold a bachelor's degree, but one organization is rewriting that story. In this episode of In the Margins, we sit down with Sara A. LaBarge, M.S.Ed., CFRE, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Native Forward Scholars Fund, the nation's largest direct scholarship provider for Native students. A proud citizen of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin and an alum of the program herself, Sara shares how Native Forward is breaking barriers in higher education through culturally relevant support, strategic philanthropy, and transformational alliances with federal agencies, tribes, and corporate partners. LaBarge discusses how Native Forward has more than doubled its revenue, expanded its reach across all 50 states, and helped over 22,000 Native students from 500 tribes pursue degrees with financial and emotional support tailored to their needs. She also discusses the impact of major philanthropic gifts, such as MacKenzie Scott's $50 million donation, the power of allyship, and the urgent need to fund basic necessities like housing, transportation, and food security to support students' success. Key Points:    - Native student enrollment decline and its root causes - How Native Forward has grown its impact and scaled nationwide with 22,000 Native students supported across 500 tribes - Tackling food, housing, and transportation needs that hinder degree completion - Sara's Story: From Menominee roots to higher-ed changemaker - The role of representation and belonging on campus - Rising demand, 35% more scholarship applications this year - Building cross-cultural alliances and advocating for policy change - Transformative Giving: $50M gift fuels scholarships and growth - The lasting impact of MacKenzie Scott's trust-based philanthropy - How listeners can become allies and support Native education - Future Vision? Closing the $150M funding gap for Native scholars. Resources:   Scholarships For Native Students | Native Forward Scholars Fund   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/The-EDU-Ledger X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/TheEDULedger Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger Threads: https://www.threads.com/@TheEDULedger Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/TheEDULedger.bsky.social   WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

What if community college could serve as a launchpad to the nation's top universities?   In this episode, we sit down with Nolvia Delgado, Executive Director of the Kaplan Educational Foundation (KEF), a former KEF scholar herself, to explore how the foundation's Kaplan Leadership Program helps first-generation and low-income students transfer from community colleges to some of the most prestigious four-year institutions in the country.   Delgado shares her own journey from Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) to Smith College, and the life-changing mentorship and financial support that made it possible. In conversation with The EDU Ledger host David Pluviose, she unpacks KEF's innovative programs: from the Community College Bridge Program to the digital Transfer Hub, which are closing knowledge gaps, reshaping perceptions of community colleges, and proving that access and excellence can coexist.    Don't miss this episode as it offers a masterclass in what real transformation looks like.   Key Points:    Delgado's Journey: From Dominican-born first-gen student at BMCC to Smith College alumna How KEF is reframing community college as the first two years of a four-year degree, not a lesser path. While only 14% of community college students nationwide earn a bachelor's, over 90% of KEF scholars do. Secret to success: intensive mentorship, transfer guidance, and ongoing support through bachelor's completion. A forthcoming digital platform giving nationwide access to transfer resources and partner school connections. The myth? Elite schools often meet full financial need; KEF scholars graduate with little to no debt. Delgado aims to scale KEF's model so every community college student has a clear, supported path to a bachelor's degree.   Quotes:   "For us, I think part of our magic sauce is closing that knowledge gap and really working with the scholars so that they understand all the different steps that are required for them to transfer and continuing to support them beyond graduation…we stay with them until they graduate [with] a bachelor's degree."    "We teach our scholars that they need to advocate for themselves and make sure that they have everything that they need from their institutions when they get there. That's also part of it."    "The goal is really to reach as many students as possible who are entering Community College, and to equip them with the tools, the resources, and the knowledge that they need to close that gap. So, of the 80% of students who are aspiring to earn a bachelor's, we don't have just 30% who are transferring."  Resources:   Kaplan Educational Foundation Taps KEF Alum Nolvia Delgado as its Next Leader   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-edu-ledger  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/TheEDULedger    WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode, Sophie Nguyen, Senior Policy Manager in the Education Policy Program at New America, joins Diverse (soon to become The EDU Ledger) to unpack the findings of Varying Degrees 2025 – the latest national survey exploring how Americans view higher education.   From her start as an intern to her current role leading research on affordability, accountability, and public opinion, Nguyen shares her personal journey into higher education policy and why she believes access to transformative education must be protected. She explains the survey's biggest takeaways: cost as the persistent driver of dissatisfaction, the partisan and demographic divides shaping perceptions, and the surprising common ground between Republicans and Democrats on making college more affordable.   In conversation with host Ralph Newell, she digs into the growing polarization, the challenges facing institutions, and the urgent need for colleges to reclaim the narrative, rebuild trust, and demonstrate real value to students and society.   If you've wondered where Americans agree, and where they sharply differ, on the future of higher ed, this discussion sheds light on the trends shaping tomorrow's colleges and universities. Tune in and explore what the data tells us, and why it matters for the future of students, families, and the nation. KEY POINTS:   - Nguyen's journey from college student to Senior Policy Manager at New America - Why transformative college experiences should be accessible to more students - Overview of the Varying Degrees 2025 survey and its role in shaping public debate - Key long-term trends: Americans value higher ed's ROI but remain dissatisfied with cost - Bipartisan concerns about affordability, accountability, and transparency in outcomes - Where Democrats and Republicans converge [and sharply diverge] on solutions - The outsized influence of elite institutions in shaping higher ed's public image - Why local colleges often enjoy more trust than "higher ed in general" - The role of policy, institutional narrative, and support services in rebuilding public confidence - The call for colleges: to be more transparent, proactive, and student-focused to rebuild trust   Quotes:    "New America is a think tank, a space in Washington, D.C. We work on a variety of issues, providing policy analysis, also advocacy on a variety of issues, such as domestic policy related to children, family, part of the education program."   "I think what I'm most proud of is... not in terms of any particular work, but I realized that higher ed is actually a very nimble... even though there has been criticism that it's very slow to change and adapt, but I think during my time learning about the sector, I have seen institutions that prove that they can adapt, they can grow, they can deal with the challenges that they face with and still support the students in the meantime."   "Colleges and universities now need to be more active in telling those stories—what they actually do, how they actually help students, how they actually help and support students... to be more transparent, to be able to regain public trust and public confidence."   Resources:   New America | Sophie Nguyen  The EDU Ledger | Linktree   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-edu-ledger  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheEDULedger_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEDULedger X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/TheEDULedger    WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEDULedger   Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by The EDU Ledger and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Rodriguez, Director of the STEMM Opportunity Alliance (SOA) at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), sits down in the pod to talk about STEMM education, workforce development, equity, and policy advancement.    From growing up in Indiana to earning her PhD in immunology, Rodriguez shares how a teacher's spark changed the trajectory of her life — and informs her work to empower future scientists.   In this conversation, with Diverse host Ralph Newell, she dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing STEMM education, including funding cuts, threats to DEI, as well as the crucial role of community colleges.    Rodriguez explains how she leads SOA's national strategy to create seamless, equitable STEMM pathways, especially for underrepresented communities, and shares how 280+ organizations are supporting in coalition to build a more inclusive, innovative STEMM future.   Ready to understand the movement building tomorrow's diverse scientific workforce?  Press play and be informed.   KEY POINTS:   - Rodriguez's Midwest upbringing and the reason behind her passion for science - Her transition from immunology research to policy, education, and systemic change - Why she believes "luck" shouldn't determine access to STEMM careers - The STEMM Opportunity Alliance's mission: to grow a diverse STEMM workforce by 2050 - The five pillars of SOA: engagement, inspiration, discovery, innovation and opportunity - How funding cuts are impacting research, equity, and student opportunity - The critical and evolving role of community colleges in STEMM training and apprenticeships - Facing challenges in DEI efforts and how SOA is helping partners to adapt and persist - What's next? Implement co-created strategies and build coalition resilience    Quotes:    "If your organization is involved in helping people get from curiosity to learning to career in STEMM, then there are resources and community available inside of the STEMM Opportunity Alliance." – Dr. Stephanie Rodriguez "The goal here is to make sure that the needs of one are being supported by the system that is doing the work — downstream and upstream." – Dr. Stephanie Rodriguez   Resources: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) | Stephanie Rodriguez   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/diverse-issues-in-higher-education Instagram: http://instagram.com/diverseissuesinhighereducation Facebook: http://facebook.com/DiverseIssuesInHigherEducation/ X (formerly Twitter): http://twitter.com/diverseissues WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@DiverseIssuesInHigherEducation   Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

Today, Diverse sits down with Dr. Carrie Kisker, president of Kisker Education Consulting and director of the Center for the Study of Community Colleges, delving into the critical role of community colleges in providing social mobility for marginalized groups.    Kisker shares her journey from soccer goalkeeper to education researcher, inspired by her mentor Arthur Cohen. In conversation with Diverse host Ralph Newell, she also explores the current challenges facing higher education, including attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.  Kisker offers insights into how educators, administrators, and students can resist these challenges while maintaining core educational values. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding shared values and communicating the true purpose of DEI initiatives as well as the fight for equity. Furthermore, she dives deep into the fundamental role of community colleges in protecting democratic ideals and providing equitable access to education.    Don't miss this episode as Kisker discusses institutional autonomy, academic freedom, her summer plans, and more. Tune in now.    KEY POINTS:   - Kisker's background, growing up in Colorado, and her passion for soccer - Key inspiration to focus on community colleges, through mentor Arthur Cohen - The challenges community colleges face in the current US administration  - Public policy and the role of community colleges in helping marginalized groups - The importance of DEI in higher education - The significance of students advocating for DEI programs and policies - The need for institutional autonomy and academic freedom - Potential elimination of the Pell Grant for part-time students - How senior leaders can support DEI via connection, resistance, and innovation - Common misconceptions about DEI  - The difference between equal and equitable distribution of resources   QUOTES:   "There has been a systematic and very intentional effort over many years to tear down the pillars that hold up our system of higher education." – Dr. Carrie B. Kisker   "If we can focus on stakeholder needs and we have a solution that meets one stakeholder's set of needs, but not another's—it's not a real, lasting solution." – Dr. Carrie B. Kisker   "When people are taught how to think critically and for themselves, it threatens autocratic rule." – Dr. Carrie B. Kisker   "We want students to be safe on campus. We do not want to discourage anyone from attending college. We want to do everything we can to help them afford it and be successful in it." – Dr. Carrie B. Kisker   Resources: Kisker Education Consulting Center for the Study of Community Colleges Council for the Study of Community Colleges    FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/diverse-issues-in-higher-education Instagram: http://instagram.com/diverseissuesinhighereducation Facebook: http://facebook.com/DiverseIssuesInHigherEducation/ X (formerly Twitter): http://twitter.com/diverseissues WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@DiverseIssuesInHigherEducation   Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).

In this honest and intimate episode, we celebrate 2025 Arthur Ashe Jr. Male Sports Scholar of the Year Jayo Adegboyo from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). His story highlights the power of networking, persistence, and interdisciplinary learning.   As a first-generation pre-med student, Jayo shares enthusiastically about the Meyerhoff Scholars program and its support for students like himself pursuing STEM careers. Jayo is a biochemistry major with a physics minor and a member of the track and field team specializing in 200m and 400m events.   Tune in as he shares his experience balancing academics and athletics, and his aspirations for neuroscience research (particularly in migraine studies), with Diverse host Ralph Newell. Their conversation also explores Jayo's approach to making lasting impacts in communities, fostering relationships with mentors, and advocating for patients with neurological disorders.    KEY POINTS:   - Jayo's background as a first-generation medical student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) - His involvement in the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, which supports diversity in STEM fields - His track and field specialization, influenced by his father's athletic background - Jayo's passion for migraine research inspired by his father's long-term struggle with migraines - Jayo's acceptance into an MD/PhD program  - Networking and building relationships with mentors who guide his research opportunities - Jayo's commitment to advocating for patients with neurological and psychiatric disorders - Jayo's strategic approach to managing time and priorities as a student-athlete - Seeking to elevate and enrich communities, leaving them better than he found them   QUOTES:   "I want to not only flourish myself, but also leave whatever space I enter better than I found it." – Jayo Adegboyo   "There's only 24 hours in a day, and you should allocate those hours in a way that whatever is the most pressing matter at that time you can focus on that." – Jayo Adegboyo   "I'm someone who likes to think a lot, even during my races, I'll be thinking as I'm running." – Jayo Adegboyo   "I'm interested in the future mostly… advocacy for people with neurological disorders and psychiatric disorders, just because there is a lot of negative stigma for people with those. Even for people with migraines, sometimes their neurologists either don't believe them in terms of what pain they're facing, or don't believe that they're actually taking the medication that was prescribed to them." – Jayo Adegboyo   Resources: Diverse's Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholars program Meyerhoff Scholars Program – UMBC Academic Pipeline Programs for Underrepresented Students That Work | Diverse: Issues In Higher Education FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/diverse-issues-in-higher-education Instagram: http://instagram.com/diverseissuesinhighereducation Facebook: http://facebook.com/DiverseIssuesInHigherEducation/ X (formerly Twitter): http://twitter.com/diverseissues WATCH THIS VIDEO AND OTHERS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@DiverseIssuesInHigherEducation   Closed captioning and live show transcription are available in the video for this episode.   In The Margins is produced by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and edited by EPYC Media Network (visit at https://www.epyc.co/).