What’s Fueling the Collapse in Public Trust in Higher Education

Changing Higher Ed

Public confidence in colleges and universities has dropped dramatically—only a third of Americans say they trust higher education. In this episode, Dr. Drumm McNaughton talks with Dr. Courtney Brown, Vice President of Strategic Impact and Planning at Lumina Foundation, about Gallup–Lumina’s latest findings and what institutional leaders must do to address the affordability and workforce relevance concerns behind this erosion of trust.

They also explore Lumina’s new 2040 goal: 75% credential attainment—with a focus on value, not just completion.

What we cover in this episode:

• Gallup data on declining public trust in higher education

• The ROI paradox: affordability vs. long-term economic benefit

• Why public perception is shifting—even as current students see value

• What Lumina’s 75x2040 goal means for institutional strategy

• How colleges can realign offerings to workforce expectations

• Supporting adult learners and restoring trust through transparency

Read the full show summary and access the transcript here: https://changinghighered.com/public-trust-in-higher-education-lumina/

#HigherEducation #CollegeAffordability #CollegeROI

About Our Guest Dr. Courtney Brown is Vice President of Strategic Impact and Planning at Lumina Foundation. She leads research, learning, and strategic initiatives aimed at increasing access to quality credentials for all Americans.

About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton is CEO of The Change Leader and host of the Changing Higher Ed podcast. He works with higher education boards and leadership teams to improve governance, lead strategic transformation, and navigate accreditation and institutional effectiveness.