Memo | November 9, 2020

2021 & Beyond: How the Biden Administration and Congress Can Ensure Higher Education Emerges From the COVID Crisis Stronger Than Ever

American colleges and universities play an essential role in building a more prosperous, equitable country. However, with colleges at a perilous point, an ambitious federal effort is needed to cushion the effects of the pandemic and recession and address longstanding challenges in affordability and equity.

We outline five critical federal pillars that would help students and colleges weather the twin crises of pandemic and recession, close racial and economic gaps in college attainment, restore the promise of public higher education, and reduce the burden of student debt.