2009 Developing Human Capital Conference

Development of human capital must be a cornerstone of Arizona and USA economic policy and economic recovery.

 

Since 1975 the earnings of those not completing and graduating from high school fell by 15% and 1%, respectively. Yet, thse of college graduates rose by 19%. This gap is increasing globally as well as within the USA. College attainment within the USA is stagnant and Arizona lags behind the nation.

 

The goal for this conference was for leaders in higher education, business, philanthropy, and policy to gather with issue experts and participate in a dialogue that examines Arizona postsecondary education from the bird's eye view down to the level of decisions made by students, families, and employers. Topics will include the following

 

VIEW FROM 30,000 FEET

• the Obama administration's new directions and policy initiatives,

VIEW FROM 20,000 FEET

• the potential of Arizona's selection as a Tough choices for Tough Times State,
• the role and potential contributions of Arizona's public and private postsecondary institutions,
• the goals and needs of today's adult student,
• college readiness issues in Arizona,
• a preview of the 2010 legislative agenda.

ON THE GROUND

• recognition of successful Arizona college access and transition programs,
• the early findings of the "Arizona's Unfinished Business" study which examines how students, workers, employers, and policy leaders make decisions which become key factors in Arizona communities' economic development