The 11-member California College Affordability CEO Advisory Council was formed by the California Student Aid Commission with the goal of breaking down barriers to higher education and expanding equitable access for students in California.
“We want to make sure that every person who wants to attend college in California is not limited by financial obstacles in achieving their dream,” Smith said.
Statewide surveys by the Public Policy Institute for California show that Californians value higher education but are concerned about college affordability. Food and housing costs now outweigh tuition expenses at many institutes of higher education.
Dr. Daisy Gonzales, executive director of the California Student Aid Commission, said the council will identify solutions that help students access financial aid, stay enrolled, and complete their education.
“This Council represents a shared commitment across California higher education campus leaders to make college more affordable, accessible, and achievable for every student,” Dr. Gonzales said.
Other members of the CEO Advisory Council include: Dr. Daisy Gonzales, Co-Chair, CSAC; Dr. Keith Curry, Co-Chair, Compton College; Dr. Erika Beck, CSU Northridge; Dr. Luis Dorado, Los Angeles Harbor College; Dr. Berenecea Johnson Eanes, CSU Los Angeles; Dr. Mark Milliron, National University; Dr. Juan Sánchez Muñoz, UC Merced; Dr. Lizette Navarette, Woodland Community College; Dr. Krista Newkirk, University of Redlands; Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, San José State University.