Lumina Foundation

Lumina Foundation President and CEO Jamie Merisotis led a conversation with Rajiv V. of The Institute for Citizens & Scholars and Yolanda Watson Spiva, Ph.D., BCC of Complete College America at SXSW this afternoon about how higher education can drive economic success and a more just, equitable society—ultimately strengthening American democracy. Higher education is at a crossroads. At a time when learning beyond high school is more essential than ever, confidence in higher education is at an all-time low, fueled by political attacks and misinformation. But education after high school strengthens communities, fosters independent thought, and builds the skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing world. It’s not just about good jobs and a good life—it’s about protecting a shared future. #SXSW25 #SXSW #SXSW2025 #SXSWEDU #SXSWEDU25 #SXSWEDU2025

More states are making the college admissions process more manageable by guaranteeing high school students admission to specific colleges before they even apply. This “direct admission” approach helps students—especially first-generation and low-income students—see that higher education is within reach. Since 2015, the number of state-run direct admission programs has grown from one to more than a dozen. While this model removes barriers, financial concerns still prevent many from enrolling. States must pair direct admission with financial aid offers to truly expand access. Because access alone is not enough—students need support to succeed.

Next week, I'm thrilled to take to the SXSW podcast stage for three live-tapings of Lumina Foundation's podcast, Today's Students, Tomorrow's Talent. For those attending SXSW, please join us on March 11 at 10a, 11:30a, and 2:30p to hear from this stellar lineup of guests. March 11 - 10:00a CT - What's a Primary Driver of US Prosperity? I'm talking with Courtney Brown of Lumina Foundation, Archie Holmes of The University of Texas System, and Kysha Wright Frazier of the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW) to talk about the social, policy, and practical conditions that must exist to drive prosperity and quality of life for American communities. March 11 - 11:30a CT - AI is Unable to Outpace Higher Education. Alisa Miller of Aletheia Marketing & Media, John McDonald of Tulsa Innovation Labs, and Julie Schell of The University of Texas at Austin will join me to discuss how we prepare cities for the economy of the future, the session highlights the transformative potential of AI when nurtured within higher education, and the tradeoffs that must be made in an education system wired for the past. March 11 - 2:30p CT - Meaningful Climate Action is Higher Ed’s Responsibility. Higher education can serve as a key catalyst for climate solutions and societal progress, but we need a bold vision and examples on how to make this vision a reality. Join me for a conversation with Adriane Alicea of Green 2.0, Tessa LeSage of Collaboratory, and Alex McBride of the Waverly Street Foundation. Find all of these shows in Exhibit Hall 3 at SXSW's podcast lounge. Won't be a SXSW? You'll can listen into the shows over the coming months through our usual podcast channels. Be sure to subscribe to Today's Students, Tomorrow's Talent wherever you listen.

At SXSW EDU today, we participated in two critical conversations in higher education: the role of local news in rebuilding trust and the ongoing debate over the value of higher education. As national headlines paint a bleak picture, most students attend college close to home—highlighting the need for stronger local reporting on education. Meanwhile, despite rising costs, 94 percent of adults still see post-high school credentials as essential for career success. "By and large, every degree and certificate pays off," said William Serrata, president of the El Paso County Community College District and Lumina Foundation board member. These discussions unpacked how communities, institutions, and media can better support students and ensure higher education remains valuable and accessible. #SXSWEDU2025 #SXSWEDU25 #SXSWEDU #SXSW #SXSW25 #SXSW2025

By 2040, 75 percent of adults in the U.S. labor force should have college degrees or other credentials of value leading to economic prosperity. #Goal2040 #75x2040 #attainment #highereducation #workforce

Are you headed to SXSW or SXSW EDU? Please join us for a networking reception tomorrow night (March 6) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. CST. Sip on handcrafted cocktails, savor local flavors, and take in rooftop views—all while connecting with trailblazers and leaders shaping the future of learning, workforce development, and economic mobility. Don’t miss this opportunity to spark fresh ideas, forge meaningful connections, and be part of the conversation that’s driving change. See you in Austin! #SXSW #SXSWEDU Register for the reception here: https://lnkd.in/ggerX65b

Our bold new goal for the country: By 2040, 75 percent of adults in the U.S. labor force will have college degrees or other credentials of value leading to economic prosperity. We must address rising costs, AI-driven job shifts, and declining trust, focusing on value, access, success, and system redesign. Let’s work together to ensure education delivers real value for students and the workforce. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gjmxtXh4

With the 2040 national goal, Lumina Foundation is committed to leading change. Through 2029, we will refine our long-term vision and launch new initiatives to break down barriers to education. We will invest in innovative programs, collaborate with national leaders, and push for policy improvements to help more Americans achieve their education and career goals. Learn more here about our early investments toward #75x2040. #Goal2040 #highereducation #workforce #collegeaffordability #prosperity #credentialing #publicpolicy

To reach the 2040 goal, we’re concentrating on four priorities: - Ensuring Credential Value: Education should lead to good jobs and financial security. Degrees and certifications must help people earn higher wages and build meaningful careers. We are working to ensure that education programs teach both job-specific skills and critical thinking, so graduates are prepared for the future. - Expanding Access to Education: College should be within reach of everyone. But many students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, rural areas, and communities of color, face significant barriers. We are working to remove obstacles and make education more affordable and accessible. - Helping Students Succeed: Enrolling in college is just the first step—students also need the support to finish. Financial struggles, family responsibilities, and mental health challenges make it difficult for many to complete their degrees. We are pushing for better student support systems, ensuring that more people graduate and find success. - Redesigning Education Systems: Higher education needs to evolve. We must rethink how colleges operate, from improving affordability to updating financial aid programs. Our aim is to create an education system that meets the needs of today’s students and helps them build secure futures. Learn more in our five-year strategic plan. #Goal2040 #75x2040 #strategy #highereducation #workforce #degrees #credentials #collegeaffordability #value

Courtney Brown explains how Lumina will measure the value of college degrees and other credentials of value leading to economic prosperity now and in the future. #value #college #highereducation #workforce #training #Goal2040 #75x2040