Unpacking the Multifaceted Benefits of Postsecondary Attainment

The Pell Institute launched a pioneering research study on TRIO learners’ views of post-secondary credential completion. Seeking collaboration from Black, Latino/a, and Indigenous TRIO college students, the institute formed a 10-12 member Student Advisory Board. Chosen participants receive a stipend and meet monthly, beginning September 2023. This research is funded by a grant from Lumina Foundation.

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Is College Worth It?: Black, Latinx, and Indigenous Student Voices on the Value of Postsecondary Credentials

The Pell Institute has released its latest report, Is College Worth It?: Black, Latinx, and Indigenous Student Voices on the Value of Postsecondary Credentials. With the support of the Lumina Foundation, this comprehensive report delves into both the economic and non-economic benefits of postsecondary education, leveraging student voices to highlight their experiences. The report highlights critical insights into the barriers to equitable access and completion faced by these student populations, as well as important implications for delivering value through more inclusive practices and policies in higher education.

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LUMINA GRANT

Student Advisory Board

Many social and economic costs are tied to postsecondary credential completion, especially for Black, Latinx, and Indigenous students. As individuals who influence students’ choices in postsecondary attainment, we play a critical role in helping students construct, recognize, and articulate the costs and value of their postsecondary credentials.

The Pell Institute, in collaboration with the University of California-Berkeley, is conducting a study to explore TRIO learners’ perceptions of postsecondary credential completion from an economic and holistic perspective. To emphasize the holistic nature and commitment to student voice in this study, we have established a Student Advisory Board comprising 17 students from across the 10 TRIO regions to contribute to the development of this study.

Please meet our esteemed members of the Pell Student Advisory Board, representing the 10 TRIO regions! At the heart of this research endeavor, this dedicated group plays a pivotal role in shaping our initiatives. The board not only enriches our work with diverse student perspectives but also celebrates and spotlights the unique experiences of TRIO students. Together, we explore ways to build college environments that resonate with their post-secondary goals and aspirations. Board members have actively contributed to this project by providing feedback on data collection instruments, engaging with preliminary research findings, and co-leading two insightful webinars, scheduled for Spring 2024 and Fall 2024.

Meet the Student Advisory Board

Terrance L. Hamm

The Pell Institute for the Study of Opportunity in Higher Education Receives $250,000 Grant from the Lumina Foundation to Explore Perceptions of Postsecondary Credentials among Black, Latinx, and Indigenous Learners

June 29, 2023

This generous grant will empower the Pell Institute to embark on a groundbreaking research project to explore the perceptions of Black, Latinx, and Indigenous learners regarding the value of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees and other postsecondary credentials. The Pell Institute will conduct the research in collaboration with the University of California, Berkeley.