Is Higher Education a Safe Investment?

JK: Our country is very, very fortunate to have these institutions, especially research universities with great resources. They have many contributions as engines for research and innovation, which is the only way to increase living standards in the long term. If you’re interested in future-proofing your city, it’s hard to think of a better investment you could make than a large research university. At the same time, I think they can work harder to be more inclusive. One thing I’ve talked to some of these presidents with is whether they can accept more transfer students from community colleges, who tend to be more diverse. The data shows that they do as well [other] pupil. We know that 80% of community college students want a four-year degree, but only 14% get it. I think taking on these more students will have a really powerful effect not only on who the universities can enroll, but a signal to all higher education.