T.E.A. with College Futures featuring Dr. Mina Dadgar

Welcome to T.E.A. with College Futures, where we bring together the voices of partners to elevate the practice of equity in action. In each feature, you’ll see how leaders are working to redefine postsecondary value, champion learner-centered solutions, and reimagine systems so that every underserved Californian can achieve greater economic mobility.

In this Talking Equity in Action conversation, Dr. Mina Dadgar of Education Equity Solutions (EES) shares insights on how postsecondary value is evolving and why it needs a more complete definition. The discussion highlights EES’ dual-value framework, which examines both individual outcomes, like wages and mobility, and the broader role credentials play in supporting communities and critical workforce needs.

Drawing on research and learner experiences, the conversation underscores that not all credentials deliver equal returns. Delivering value requires better alignment across postsecondary education, workforce systems, and state investment so that credentials lead to real opportunity for learners and create meaningful impact for communities.