People are every nation’s greatest natural resource. Growing and investing in that treasure ought to be every leader’s priority. Globally, the United States is in 131st place in terms of population growth (0.67% growth rate, according to CIA.gov). It is anticipated that we will be in negative territory by 2042, a mere 17 years away. Therefore, investing in the promise of the entirety of our citizenry is of great personal value to each individual and massive social value to our country.
In the early 20th century, our nation made a commitment to provide public education to all our children and youth through their high school graduation. Curriculum was set to include 12 years of formal education to prepare students for entering the workforce. A high school diploma was sufficient for securing employment that adequately sustained families. Clearly, those days are long gone.
While a four-year college degree is not always necessary for gainful employment and economic mobility, a high school diploma is simply not enough. A post-secondary credential is critical.
Dan, in his book “Mindset Matters,” argues that an important value of a residential college education is transforming students’ mindsets for lifelong learning. He contends college is a unique and immersive environment where students cultivate curiosity and the drive to explore new ideas, innovate to bring new ideas into existence, strengthen their teamworking skills, develop supportive relationships with faculty and peers, and gain resilience and a persistent drive to overcome challenges. Through telling the stories of recent graduates, many of whom were first in their families to attend college, he shows how these experiences shape not only academic achievements but also personal growth and community leadership.
Leaders of many of the 730 companies that employed scholars of The Pittsburgh Promise have shared with Saleem that, when hiring young talent, in addition to technical and professional attributes, they look for a demonstration of creativity and problem-solving, clear communication, and relationship and team building. The CEO’s priorities seem to be “hand in glove” with the mindsets formed through the college experience.
Yet too many young people face barriers that prevent them from beginning, let alone completing, post- secondary education. This limits their personal potential and the economic opportunities of our communities. This is precisely why The Pittsburgh Promise makes education after high school more affordable and provides coaching for students so they can make the most of it. Pittsburgh has seen firsthand how breaking down barriers and nurturing growth mindsets transform lives and systems.
Pennsylvania is on the brink of a critical challenge: By 2035, the state is projected to face a shortfall of 770,000 skilled workers. Investing in young people’s access to higher education, and fostering the growth mindset needed to graduate, is simultaneously a micro and macro imperative. By nurturing mindsets and removing barriers, we can build a more educated, skilled and resilient workforce, promoting lasting prosperity for generations to come.
Daniel Porterfield is president of Aspen Institute. Saleem Ghubril is executive director of The Pittsburgh Promise.