In the next decade, the U.S. economy will require many more people with college degrees, certificates, or other credentials of value beyond a high school diploma. Governors can meet this labor market and societal demand by taking steps to boost the share of people in their state with quality credentials. In doing so, they will join a national movement for working adults in the United States to realize the life-changing benefits of building workforce-relevant knowledge and skills.
Better-educated, better-trained people, whether Black, white, or brown, launch and attract businesses, generate better health outcomes, contribute to lower crime rates, and help ensure increased economic opportunity and social mobility for everyone.
Among today’s college students, nearly half are the first in their families to pursue formal education or training after high school. Forty-two percent of college students are students of color. Nearly one-fourth care for children. More than a third do not know where their next meals are coming from. Many students regularly encounter unstable housing situations. Almost 40 million people are 25 years old or older, have some college experience, and have stopped out without earning a degree or other credentials. These conditions present opportunities and challenges for the newly elected statewide official.
As you begin your term as governor, Lumina Foundation, along with some of its grantees and partners, provides you with the following advice.