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This live session, taped at SXSW 2025, explores the interplay between higher education and artificial intelligence, delving into how academic institutions are responding to the proliferation of AI in the workplace and economy.

Patrick Crane, Ph.D., is the strategy director for state policy for Lumina Foundation, an independent, private foundation in Indianapolis committed to making learning opportunities beyond high school available to all. He leads the development and implementation of Lumina’s state policy strategy and oversees the portfolio of grants aimed at increasing credential attainment and value. Crane […]

Here’s why states betting on certificates to boost attainment might be a losing wager. A recent visit to the Santa Anita racetrack taught me a surprising lesson—not about horse racing, but about the seductive power of a “clever” idea.

Despite the loud and pervasive national rhetoric that college campuses are ideological battlegrounds where free speech is stifled, most students say their experience is much different.

Diversity and equity initiatives are increasingly under attack in statehouses, schools, and corporations across the country. But amid this rising rhetoric, a critical misunderstanding threatens our nation’s future—one that could erode our global leadership and economic prosperity.

PJ Woolston, Ed.D., is the director of strategic insights for Lumina Foundation, an independent, private foundation in Indianapolis committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all.

Mandy leads Lumina’s digital and social outreach strategy and partnerships with nonprofit and public news organizations such as PBS NewsHour, The Texas Tribune, and Washington Monthly.

Learn more about student perspectives on free speech on college campuses Despite national debates suggesting that students face suppression of their views on college campuses, the latest Lumina Foundation-Gallup study tells a different story. The Beyond the Headlines: The Reality of Free Speech on College Campuses report finds that most bachelor’s degree students, regardless of political […]

Kaye Vitug, a global healthcare and finance leader, has joined Lumina Foundation’s board of directors, which concluded its spring meeting today.

Kaye Vitug is the chief financial officer and senior vice president of Roche Diagnostics Corporation, a market leader that delivers novel diagnostic solutions that help improve patients’ lives.

Three years ago, we at Lumina Foundation became curious about the stigma surrounding community colleges. Americans saw them as the convenient, practical choice—but as a backup to something “better” and often not the first choice for serious students.

In response to falling public confidence, higher ed needs to deliver greater value and a clear return on investment.

In this special edition, we have a conversation on how to drive economic growth, strengthen civic life, and equip individuals to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Experts from workforce, higher education and philanthropy will dive into how learning after high school cultivates a skilled workforce, fosters innovation, and improves quality of life for American communities. This show was recorded live from the podcast lounge at SXSW.

Lumina Foundation is an independent, private foundation committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all. We envision a system that is easy to navigate, delivers fair results, and meets the nation’s need for talent through a broad range of credentials. Our goal is to prepare people for informed citizenship and success in a global economy.

Understanding the social, political, and economic factors that affect our work helps us adapt to changing situations.

For years, the debate about higher education has centered on one question: Is college still worth it?

The strategy officer for research develops and manages research on efforts to increase high-quality credential attainment.

I have served at the U.S. Department of Education twice—once as a career civil servant and later as deputy undersecretary and acting assistant secretary. I took immense pride in serving students with dignity and purpose in both roles. I continue to be inspired by the unwavering dedication of the department’s career employees—public servants who have committed their lives to advancing educational opportunity in every corner of this country.

Public confidence in higher education is slipping. You’ve probably heard it—maybe even felt it. But here’s the thing: While skepticism is rising, most Americans still believe in the power of a college degree. They see it as a ticket to career success, financial stability, and a better future for their families.