President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama have invited leaders from colleges and universities, nonprofits, government agencies, and the private sector to the White House today to talk about ways to get more low-income students to and through college.
The event is scheduled to last all day with a series of speeches from the Obamas and administration officials, as well as panel discussions, according to the White House website.
To get on the guest list, which is estimated around 100, Inside Higher Ed reports that leaders were required to make new pledges to help low-income students, through programs or financial support. The commitments include expanding college advising for underserved students, matching low-income students with colleges that fit their qualifications, increasing the number of high-achieving, low-income student applicants, improving remedial education, and offering summer enrichment programs on college campuses for high school students. The Chronicle of Higher Education writes that attendees have signed off on more than 20 various commitments to expand opportunities for underserved students.
Last fall, Michelle Obama added college access to her list of causes to champion as first lady, sharing her story about getting into Princeton University with high school students in Washington and encouraging young people to aim high in college.
In 2010, the White House hosted a similar summit, but with focus on leaders from community colleges.
Stay tuned for updates from the White House and attendees and the day unfolds.