Recognizing and Serving Low-Income Students in Higher Education: An Examination of Institutional Policies, Practices, and Culture

Written for administrators, faculty, and staff in Higher Education who are working with low income and first-generation college students, Recognizing and Serving Low-Income Students in Higher Education uncovers organizational biases that prevent post-secondary institutions from adequately serving these students. This volume offers practical guidance for adopting new or revised policies and practices that have the potential to help these students thrive.

This contributed volume is based on empirical studies that specifically examine the policies and practices of postsecondary institutions in the United States, England, and Canada. The contributing authors argue that discussions of diversity will be enriched by a better understanding of how institutional policies and practices affect low-income students. Unlike most studies on this topic, this volume focuses on institutional rather than federal, state and public policy. Institutional policies and practices have been largely ignored and this volume lifts the veil on processes that have remained hidden.

Adrianna Kezar is Associate Professor for Higher Education at the University of Southern California.