College Presidents Are Speaking Out About Social Mobility

Portland, Or., December 10, 2021

Presidents of colleges and universities that have maintained strong positions in the newly released 2021 Social Mobility Index (SMI) published by CollegeNET, Inc. are speaking about the growing importance of their missions in the face of both Covid-19 and diminishing social mobility in the U.S.

Here's what some university presidents are saying:

S. David Wu, President, Baruch College, CUNY — “For the seventh consecutive year, Baruch College ranked #1 in the nation on CollegeNET’s Social Mobility Index (SMI), the premier benchmark recognizing colleges that move students from low-income families into good paying jobs. The CollegeNET #1 ranking has once again confirmed Baruch’s unique value proposition — achieving academic excellence while advancing the social mobility of our students. At a time when the value and relevance of a college education is increasingly questioned, our ability to propel students from all social and economic backgrounds to excellence and opportunity is more important than ever before.”

Michelle J. Anderson, President, Brooklyn College, CUNY — “Once again, Brooklyn College’s transformative work helping students into rewarding careers has been recognized in the Social Media Index for 2021. As we continue to work our way through one of the most challenging periods in our nation’s history, our focus continues to be offering whatever assistance our students need to succeed. Whether it be in the classroom or emotional and financial support, enhancing Brooklyn College student success is our number one goal.”

Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval, Principal, Fresno State University — “Fresno State University has been ranked among the top five universities in social mobility [by CollegeNET’s SMI] for the fifth consecutive year …This ranking shows how Fresno State University transforms its lives through world-class comprehensive higher education, which directly empowers the economic and social landscape of the community.”

Stephen Percy, President, Portland State University — “A new ranking from CollegeNET places PSU in the top 10% nationwide for social mobility and No.1 in Oregon at 114th out of 1,549 institutions … This recognition is proof that our focus on serving students and having a transformative effect on their lives is working. Building economic opportunity and preparing students for meaningful futures speaks to the core of who we are.”

Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar, President, University of Central Oklahoma — “We are incredibly proud to have [CollegeNET’s] nationally recognized data and ranking as evidence of living our mission to empower students. UCO offers students a promising path to socioeconomic success and a runway to a bright future.”

Richard Yao, Interim President, California State University, Channel Islands — “To hear that CSUCI has been rising steadily in the [Social Mobility Index] rankings … is gratifying, but we’re especially pleased to hear that our students are continuing to succeed during a persisting pandemic.”

Deborah Curtis, President, Indiana State University — “We’re proud to have been recognized once again by CollegeNET for Indiana State University’s life-changing education and its impact on our students. Improving lives and serving the public with high-quality, affordable higher education is at the core of our distinct mission.”

Thomas A. Parham, President, California State University, Dominguez Hills — “Our university’s stellar performance on the Social Mobility Index is a testament to both the academic and co-curricular mission of the Dominguez Hills campus, and the dedication and commitment of our faculty and staff.”

Media Contact:
Jill Thacker
jill@collegenet.com
503.973.5255