Access, Equity & the Transfer Pipeline

Ashish Vaidya addresses persistent barriers in the U.S. transfer pipeline, emphasizing the need for systemic solutions to credit mobility, information gaps, and student confidence. Drawing from his policy and campus-level work, he advocates for stronger alignment between community colleges and four-year institutions, starting as early as high school. Vaidya highlights promising practices — like co-located housing and early pathway communications — that help students see themselves as future university graduates. He also reflects on regional disparities in access, especially in areas like California’s Inland Empire, and calls for collaborative leadership to overcome “education deserts.” By embracing hybrid models, technology, and a shared regional mission, institutions can close longstanding equity gaps and expand opportunity.