Executive Chairman’s Message Creating Pathways to Opportunity

Effective education pathways for learners from low-income backgrounds have long fallen short. A contentious presidential election has heightened tensions within already challenged postsecondary education and workforce training systems, adding to the strain. Although we now know the election outcome, public policy questions remain unresolved, leaving room for changes in the years ahead.

In such uncertain times, staying focused on our mission is critical. This year, we renewed our commitment to expanding opportunities for learners from low-income backgrounds. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of our grantmaking strategies, refining our approach to better align with our goals. By early 2025, we will fully transition to a refreshed grantmaking strategy, laying the groundwork for even greater impact.

At the same time, the national need for skilled workers has never been more urgent. A recent report from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce predicts that by 2031, 72% of jobs will require at least some postsecondary education and training after high school

Yet, millions of Americans, particularly those from underserved communities, lack access to these critical pathways. We envision a world where learners from low-income backgrounds can succeed in these fields. Unlocking this talent pool is essential to meeting workforce needs and investing in our economy’s vitality.

By expanding access to and tapping into a broader pool of talent, we create opportunities for everyone to succeed, regardless of their starting point. This commitment reflects both the foundation of our mission and the vision of our board.

While the coming year will undoubtedly bring new challenges and opportunities, we are confident that our strategy will continue to drive meaningful outcomes for the people we serve.