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The Dispatch

A biweekly newsletter about the role of higher ed in society. Each week, we highlight how college is (or is not) working for citizens and communities.

Posted inThe Dispatch

How larger Pell Grants could boost college completion

By Colleen MurphyApril 17, 2026April 17, 2026

An inflation-adjusted Pell Grant would be worth several hundred more dollars. That could help keep low-income students enrolled.

Posted inThe Dispatch

Faculty say they’re in ‘constant triage mode’ amid political pressures

By Colleen MurphyApril 3, 2026April 8, 2026

The majority of faculty and administrators said in a recent survey that their well-being has declined in the last year.

Posted inThe Dispatch

Many Black graduates of for-profit colleges wouldn’t choose them again

By Colleen MurphyMarch 13, 2026March 13, 2026

Focus group participants said they enrolled with limited information, received little support and often graduated with heavy debt.

Posted inThe Dispatch

FAFSA completions on track for record-breaking year

By Colleen MurphyFebruary 27, 2026March 2, 2026

So far, 43% of high school seniors have completed the application, unlocking access to federal financial aid.

Posted inThe Dispatch

How higher ed drives economic growth

By Colleen MurphyFebruary 13, 2026February 13, 2026

The median U.S. household takes home nearly $20,000 more in income than it did 50 years ago. A key reason? College.

Posted inThe Dispatch

Colleges, employers ask each other: ‘How can I help you?’

By Colleen MurphyJanuary 30, 2026January 30, 2026

They’re working together to create clear pathways into good-paying jobs that meet student needs and employer demands.

Posted inThe Dispatch

Why men are more likely than women to drop out of college

By Colleen MurphyJanuary 16, 2026January 16, 2026

Men make up 42% of undergraduates and half of all stopouts, according to new data.

Posted inThe Dispatch

Pay rent or pay loans? Student borrowers are forced to choose.

By Colleen MurphyDecember 10, 2025December 10, 2025

A new study found that many can’t afford to make loan payments as the cost of living rises.

Posted inThe Dispatch

Colleges are enrolling students with weak math skills. Here’s why that matters.

By Colleen MurphyDecember 5, 2025December 5, 2025

In the last five years, the number of UC San Diego students whose math skills are below the high-school level has increased nearly thirtyfold. That’s just one example.

Posted inThe Dispatch

A slump in international student enrollment

By Colleen MurphyNovember 21, 2025November 21, 2025

While the number of international students on U.S. campuses started to decline before President Donald Trump took office, his policies since then have further targeted them.

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