The State of College Access: 2012 Forum

 Forum LogoStudent financial aid experts discussed the importance (and limitations) of the Federal Pell Grant program in increasing college access at a half-day forum held Jan. 18 at the U.S. Capitol. Presenters explored the challenges and opportunities America faces as we work to increase college access and successful completion. Read more >> 

Check out photos from the event >> 

VIDEO: Introductory Remarks From NASFAA President Justin Draeger and Congressman Bishop 

 
 

Issue Brief: The Role of Pell Grants in Access, Persistence & Completion

This issue brief provides context for the forum by reviewing the historical role of access in the student aid programs and how perceptions of the value and importance of access are shifting. Download the issue brief >> 

Panel 1: The Future Role Of Federal Pell Grants

Panelists discuss the increasing  calls for accountability and expectations for a return on investment from the federal student aid programs. Did the Federal Pell Grant Program achieve access goals? If it is time to add persistence and completion as explicit goals, can the Pell Grant alone achieve this? What other barriers -- besides cost -- prevent persistence and completion and how can we remove these barriers? How can student aid policy balance access and completion goals to maximize effectiveness?

Panelists

Panel 2: Beyond Pell - Other Pieces to the Access Puzzle

Funding is a large part of a student’s ability to access postsecondary education, but other barriers to postsecondary education also loom large. College outreach programs that provide academic and other support must partner student financial aid to effectively help our nation’s students achieve college access and success. Panelists will discuss the role of different programs in providing college access and success.

Panelists

Detailed session descriptions 

Access Group