Stepping into the Spotlight? Regional Colleges as the USA’s Critical Hubs for Innovation

The 400+ regional public colleges and universities in the United States educate nearly 40% of all undergraduates and 70% of undergraduates at public, 4-year institutions. These institutions serve as critical drivers of workforce development, innovation, and economic mobility but can often be overlooked. While R1 flagships or well-funded elites often dominate discussions on higher ed innovation, regional institutions are leading the way in areas like online education, flexible credentialing, and workforce-aligned learning. This panel—featuring leaders at the forefront of this transformation—will explore how regional colleges are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of today’s learners, employers, and communities at scale.