GIA Education Report: 12/11/24

Welcome to the GIA Education Report. With the latest in Southern California education news, I’m Alyssa Silva.  

The White House Initiative for Native Americans and Strengthening Tribal Colleges and Universities hosted a Convening on Indian Education on December 10 to celebrate Native American Heritage Month. The event highlighted educators, programs, and students, with panels covering topics from early childhood education to professional degree programs. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona delivered welcoming remarks. The event took place at the U.S. Department of Education and was also livestreamed. 

In other news, California Baptist University has seen a significant increase in donations over the past four years, totaling more than $102 million in gifts and commitments. These contributions are funding scholarships, academic programs, and campus projects, including a historic $28.5 million gift from Dale and Sarah Ann Fowler. CBU’s $40 Million Endowment Challenge, launched in 2021, surpassed its goal in just three and a half years, effectively quadrupling endowment gifts of $25,000 or more. These gifts will have a lasting impact, supporting student success and advancing the university’s mission.  

Colleges and universities across the United States are experiencing a significant decline in enrollment rates. Data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center shows undergraduate enrollment has dropped by over 1 million students since 2020, reflecting a larger, systemic challenge for higher education institutions. Several factors may be contributing to this trend, including economic pressures, changing workforce demands, and a growing preference for alternative pathways such as apprenticeships and certifications. High school graduates and adult learners are increasingly opting out of traditional college programs, citing concerns over cost and the perceived return on investment. To address the decline, some institutions have implemented measures such as flexible schedules, expanded online learning options, and partnerships with local industries to better meet student needs. However, experts suggest that reversing the downward trend will require comprehensive strategies that address accessibility, affordability, and public perceptions of higher education. The enrollment drop carries implications beyond academia, potentially affecting workforce development and economic growth across the country. 

Two new paramedic training programs are launching in 2025 at College of the Desert and Mt. San Jacinto College, addressing a critical need in the Inland Empire. These year-long programs will provide students with hands-on training and comprehensive support, including fully covered costs for MSJC’s cohort through Riverside County funding. With demand for paramedics projected to grow 9% regionally by 2027, these programs aim to prepare students for a vital career in emergency services while meeting the increasing need for trained first responders in the area. 

To close this report, we highlight Miranda Lee, a Cal State San Bernardino Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation student, who will graduate this December. Balancing roles as a parent, entrepreneur, and student, Lee’s achievements include winning the CSU Startup Competition and completing the PledgeLA Venture Capital Fellowship. Her startup, Modular Market, reflects her dedication to innovation and advancing diversity in venture capital. 

And that’s this week’s GIA Education Report, I’m Alyssa Silva.