Higher education is an important determinant of future earnings potential and has significant implications for workforce development more generally. A recent report on equity in Missouri higher education suggests that, despite some improvements over time, there are still significant limitations to college access and completion for students of color and low-income students. During this briefing, we will hear from Missouri researchers currently studying some of the barriers and opportunities in higher education access for historically underserved populations.

Michael Steven Williams, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Higher Education in the University of Missouri-Columbia Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis Department. His research centers inclusion, diversity and equity to understand interpersonal relationships (socialization, mentoring and belonging among students, administrators and faculty at higher education institutions) and institutional accountability.

Oded Gurantz, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Harry S. Truman School of Public Affairs at the University of Missouri-Columbia. He is also 2020 National Academy of Education Postdoctoral Fellow. His research combines economics and education policy to understand what programs and policies reduce educational disparities between historically underserved students and their peers.

Bradley Curs, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Higher Education Policy in the University of Missouri-Columbia Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis Department. He also serves as the Director for the Missouri Statewide Cooperative EdD. His research uses an economics approach to study equity and access to education, especially as it relates to financial aid programs and other higher education costs.