The esteemed corridors of Howard University witnessed quite the gathering on Monday, as higher education luminaries, advocates, and scholars assembled for the grand unveiling of ACE’s latest gem: the Economic Impact of Higher Education in America tool.
At the splendid Oliver Building, a crowd nearing 100 souls eagerly delved into the insights this tool offers. It’s a remarkable means to illustrate the bountiful benefits higher education brings—not just to students but to the very fabric of local, state, and regional economies.
In a delightful exchange, ACE President Ted Mitchell presented Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick with a charming “Higher Education Builds America” cap. (Photo by Cedric Mobley for Howard University).
The programme commenced with Ted Mitchell highlighting the expansive value of higher education. “Higher education builds America,” he proclaimed—an ethos echoed by the tool in intricate detail.
President Wayne A.I. Frederick warmly welcomed guests, emphasizing Howard’s unwavering dedication to enhancing opportunity and economic advancement. He reflected on how higher education has profoundly impacted his own journey.
“You cannot discuss American exceptionalism without acknowledging the foundational role of our colleges and universities,” Frederick declared passionately.
The event then moved to briskly paced prerecorded addresses by Reps. Burgess Owens and Bobby Scott. They lauded ACE for spotlighting higher education’s economic contributions and shared their own reflections on its significance.
Next on the agenda, Emmanual Guillory and Danielle Melidona of ACE introduced the much-anticipated Economic Impact tool. They guided the audience through its intricate development, underlying data sources, and myriad applications.
Following this, a riveting panel discussion unfolded, moderated by Inside Higher Ed Editor-in-Chief Sara Custer. The esteemed panel featured Jared C. Bass from the Center for American Progress, Andrew Flagel of the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area, Alex Ricci of the National Council of Higher Education Resources, and Mamie Voight from the Institute for Higher Education Policy.
These erudite panelists examined how higher education serves as both a private boon and a public asset. They delved into its role as an economic anchor and a significant employer nationwide, while underscoring the necessity of transparent data to guide investment and policy decisions. Crucially, they reminded attendees that behind every data point are real individuals with stories to tell.
With the launch of the Economic Impact of Higher Education in America tool, ACE continues its noble quest to bolster public comprehension of higher education’s myriad benefits. Accessible to policymakers, journalists, and academic leaders, this tool elucidates how institutions drive economies and foster community growth across the nation.
