This session is designed to engage audience members in considering both the challenges and opportunities inherent in moving towards more adequate, equitable, and effective community college funding. It will also provide an opportunity for audience members to explore how specific contextual factors in their states might affect such efforts. Specifically, the session will consider the following themes: What are the opportunities and challenges to equitable community college finance and student outcomes? What does it really cost to support students through credential attainment? How can categorical funding allocations contribute to more equitable student outcomes? Researchers from HCM and CCRC will give short, Ted-talk-style presentations. A Representative from the Tennessee Board of Regents will provide reactions and contextualize these findings presentations within the Tennessee funding landscape. Then, attendees will break into small groups to explore issues and questions raised by panelists and finally reconvene to share their enhanced understanding through a facilitated discussion.