Economists have found that each additional percentage point increase in the four-year college attainment rate increases metro per capita income by $1,250. The metro areas with the highest per capita income – such as Boston, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. – have the highest postsecondary attainment rates. These are also the areas that are most competitive when it comes to attracting and retaining talent, bringing in new industries, and performing in a global economy.
However, the barriers and challenges that our community will face on the way to 60% attainment are complex and deeply ingrained into our institutions. In addition to addressing the roadblocks that all of our students face as they navigate our postsecondary landscape, we need to contend with the deeply rooted systemic issues that contribute to stark and unacceptable equity gaps.
Joining the Compact means that you are committing to do the work and change the systems that are preventing more students from accessing and thriving in college. It also means that you will be part of a network, made up of our region’s boldest and most innovative leaders, who are working collectively to solve these problems together, and given a framework with measurable, high-impact strategies for moving the needle on our goals.
For more on completion, please request more information below:
Learn how the Chamber is supporting education and talent in the region.
