The HigherEd Effect:
Partnering for impact
The HigherEd Effect is a collective source to reclaim and amplify the truth: higher education is one of the most powerful forces for social and economic progress.
Through real, compelling stories of personal transformation, economic mobility, innovation, and community impact, we partner with colleges and universities to shape a bold, unified narrative — one that makes clear higher ed doesn’t just change lives. It strengthens democracy, drives opportunity, and fuels the future.
Linfield University grant aims to make nursing school more inclusive
A generous grant from the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation will help Linfield University continue to make nursing education more accessible in the years ahead. The foundation, the only one in the United States dedicated solely to improving the education of health professionals, agreed to provide the university with $180,808 over the next three years to help researchers…
Community Uplift
Discover how campuses are breaking down barriers, expanding access, and building stronger communities—one student, one program, one story at a time.
Read moreFostering Discourse
Campuses are spaces where diverse perspectives are shared, challenged, and respected. These stories show how higher ed supports bold ideas and strengthens community connections.
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Driving Workforce
From industry-aligned programs to groundbreaking research, higher education is fueling talent pipelines and powering economic growth, preparing tomorrow’s workforce.
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Proudly Presented By
Council for Advancement and Support of Education
A global nonprofit association dedicated to educational advancement professionals—in alumni relations, communications, development, marketing, and advancement services.
American Council on Education
A membership organization that mobilizes the higher education community to shape effective public policy and foster innovative, high-quality practice.
Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges
The premier membership organization that strengthens higher education governing boards and the strategic roles they serve within their organizations.
The Proud Sponsor Campaign is a grass-roots movement aimed at reminding people of the countless ways that higher education makes American life better – regardless of whether you have a college degree.
Perceptions About Higher Education
Public confidence in higher education is declining. Misconceptions are growing. But behind the headlines, the real impact of colleges and universities is stronger than ever.
Now’s the time to work together—to tell the full story of what higher ed makes possible. The more unified our message, the louder our voice, and the greater our effect.
Stats: Pew Research; Gallup-Lumina
Only 22% of U.S. adults believe a four-year college degree is worth the cost if loans are required.
Nearly half say a degree is worth it, but only if a student doesn’t have to take out loans.
Nearly 30% of Americans think
a college degree is not worth the cost at all, regardless of loans.
Only 36% of adults say they have a “great deal” of confidence in higher education
Join us
Contribute to The HigherEd Effect by sharing stories of impact from your institution.