Sacramento State is participating in an important study aimed at improving outcomes for adult students, specifically Latinx adult learners, a population often overlooked.

The University has been selected as one of 15 Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) contributing to the national research project to better serve adult students (25 years and older).

The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), in partnership with Excelencia in Education, launched the three-year project.

“Adult learners currently make up approximately 22 percent of Sacramento State’s undergraduate and 74 percent of our graduate student population,” said Sacramento State President Robert S. Nelsen. “Fewer than one in four Latinx adults has a college degree, and this partnership is an important chance for us to move the needle nationwide.”

Research begins in October with a campus-wide survey administered through the Office of Institutional Research, Effectiveness, and Planning. Adult students, in addition to volunteer respondents (faculty, staff and administrators) will receive an online survey that will assess the needs of adult learners in 10 areas including advising, scheduling and financial aid.

The assessment data will compare perceptions of how well Latinx adult students are supported compared to non-Latinx adult students. It will also identify areas for improving services and provide professional development for staff through the CAEL Adult Learner 360 Academy.

“The opportunity to partner with CAEL and institutions committed to improve their efforts with Latino adult students advances our shared national goals of accelerating Latino student success for a better educated workforce and citizenry,” said Excelencia in Education CEO Deborah A. Santiago.

This initiative is made possible with funding from the Kresge Foundation, Greak Lakes Guarantee Corporation, and Greater Texas Foundation.