Learn about critical issues based on data and acquire the tools needed to support Black learners
Our nation has long underserved Black learners in higher education
Through this interactive playbook, gain an understanding of critical issues based on the research presented, acquire the tools needed to support Black learners, and begin to identify what steps you can take after viewing spotlighted examples
This playbook is a call to action for key players—postsecondary institutions, state policymakers, federal policymakers, and community and business leaders—to uphold practices and policies that reinforce the value proposition of higher education for Black learners and dismantle the structures that function as barriers to Black learner success. It is a tool for all to use in their respective realms while elevating Black student voices. Each stakeholder group plays an important role in increasing postsecondary access and outcomes for Black learners.
Explore this interactive playbook
State policymakers have law-making and budget authority to bolster accountability, affordability, transparency, and consumer protection, and they subsidize institutions where most Black learners enroll.
LEARN MORE ➔Federal policymakers have authority and funding to address affordability, strengthen data and delivery systems, oversee accreditation, and incentivize states and institutions to bolster foundational policies and target support to Black learners.
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Higher Education Institutions are on the front lines serving Black learners with campus policies and practices that promote access and success, including a focus on increasing transparency, improving the value proposition, and cultivating a sense of belonging.
LEARN MORE ➔Community and business leaders are invaluable partners to advocate for Black learner excellence, provide work experiences, connect learners to human services, and foster community through mentorship.
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In order to LEVEL UP, key leaders are compelled to GET REAL
REAL Transparency and True Affordability
We must focus not only on increasing need-based aid, but also on making more visible the bottom-line cost students will pay, based on a realistic assessment of what students can reasonably afford.
Ensured Success Through Shared Ownership
At each level—federal, state, system, and institutional—we must create mechanisms to support Black learners and ensure shared accountability for their success in and beyond their postsecondary experiences.
Academic and Social Supports that Create a Sense of Belonging
Institutions and systems must proactively consider the disproportionate challenges facing Black learners inside and outside the classroom by developing supports and connecting them to community resources. This will afford opportunities to provide robust advising, support to access pathways to high-wage and high-demand jobs, and assistance to address critical issues in an environment that fosters respect and a sense of belonging.
Learner-Centered Teaching Practices for Black Learners
Teaching practices should center students’ lived experiences, perspectives, strengths, and needs as grounding for learning.
Explore stories from around the country in our interactive map below.
Data Points
Community college enrollment 2022 and 2012 by presence of bachelor’s degree programs
Source: Level UP analysis of IPEDs institutional characteristics 2012-13 and IPEDs fall enrollment 2022 and 2023
“I've dealt with racism, criticism and discrimination in my educational journey, and my job is to remove those barriers for students – especially students that look like me.”
— Dr. Keith Curry, President & CEO of Compton College