CECU Statement on Chairman Alexander’s HEA Reauthorization Proposal

Following Chairman Lamar Alexander’s release of eight bipartisan bills to rewrite parts of the Higher Education Act, Steve Gunderson, President and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, released the following statement:
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“Reauthorization of the Higher Education Act is one of the most important items this Congress can accomplish. While everything in higher education has changed since the last reauthorization, the law underpinning higher education remains stuck in the past.”

“We applaud Chairman Lamar Alexander’s continued leadership on this issue. His proposed legislation ensures that programs like short-term Pell are used for what it is important – help current workers upgrade their current occupational skills. As the colleges and universities exclusively focused on career skills and workforce preparation, we stand ready to work with students to use these grants to make as many Americans career ready and future proof as possible."
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“We hope that Chairman Alexander’s counterparts in the House, led by Chairman Scott and Dr. Foxx, will be able to advance companion legislation that supports all students at all institutions. We are prepared to work with stakeholders at all levels to ensure the best access, opportunities and outcomes for all students.”