Back
This study sheds light on the motivations, challenges, and successes of the strategies and practices used by a set of postsecondary institutions that have enacted institutional change in support of adult learners of color. A common thread among these institutions is their commitment to understanding their learners’ experiences, which drove their institutional change efforts. These journeys toward better supporting adult learners are deeply rooted in an understanding of the communities they serve and a desire to advance their institutional missions. Key findings include:
- Community-Driven Transformation: Institutions engaged local employers, community members, and adult learners to shape change efforts—often guided by access-focused missions or MSI designations.
- Structural Shifts: Changes ranged from adding student support roles to launching centralized offices for adult learner services and reorganizing departments to improve collaboration.
- Process Improvements: Institutions invested in staff development around data use, cultural competence, and adult learning practices, fostering a more data-informed, learner-centered culture.
- Cultural Change: By using data and storytelling, institutions built internal champions and scaled successful pilot programs to drive broader campus-wide change.