Supporting Students When Systems Fail: Higher Ed Steps Up for Veterans

When the VA Stumbles, Colleges Step In to Support Students

VA Benefit Backlog Disrupts Education for 75,000+ Students

A software malfunction at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has triggered backlogs in tuition and housing payments for more than 75,000 college and trade-school students who are dependents or survivors of service members. The delay affects benefits under Chapter 35 and related programs, leaving some students unable to pay bills or at risk of dropping courses. Colleges are stepping in to provide emergency funding or payment extensions to support those caught in the funding gap.
Key Takeaway: Advisers and financial aid staff should proactively identify and support veteran-connected students affected by delayed benefits to prevent retention and enrollment challenges.

Illinois Launches Statewide Initiative to Re-Enroll Adult Learners

The Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) has launched a new platform to help adult learners who have some college credit but no credential return to finish their education. The initiative connects 200,000 Illinois residents with 19 participating colleges and universities through personalized coaching and flexible pathways. It reflects a growing national trend to re-engage adult learners amid workforce shortages and demographic shifts.
Quick Insight: Colleges should adopt strategies such as personalized coaching and credit-for-prior-learning programs to re-engage adults with some college credit and no degree.

Title VI Investigations Surge, Raising Compliance Concerns for Campuses

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has launched or reopened dozens of Title VI investigations into universities over potential discrimination based on race or national origin. The shift reflects the Trump administration’s renewed emphasis on enforcing anti-discrimination laws while also scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Institutions are being urged to review admissions, scholarships, and campus programming for compliance vulnerabilities.
Key Insight: Colleges should strengthen oversight of policies and programs to ensure compliance with Title VI and prepare for heightened federal scrutiny.

How Colleges Guide Students Matters More Than What They Study

In a recent Forbes essay, higher education leader Marvin Krislov argues that while what students study is important, how colleges guide them through academic and career pathways matters even more. Institutions that integrate experiential learning, advising, and real-world application see stronger student engagement and outcomes. The piece highlights the growing call for career-aligned education and holistic student support.
Takeaway: Colleges should invest in integrated advising and experiential learning to connect academic pathways to meaningful career outcomes.