Supporting Diverse Student Populations: Promising Practices for Black, Latinx, and Low-Income Learners

November 2020–October 2022

Despite years of research on effective advising practices, colleges need more information on the most effective approaches to advising and student supports that support Black, Latinx, and low-income students and contribute to equitable college environments and improved student outcomes. This project is addressing the need for targeted efforts to support underrepresented students and close achievement gaps.

Researchers used existing data to identify the colleges that participated in the iPASS project that saw the greatest improvements in key performance indicators (KPIs) by Black and Latinx students and Pell Grant recipients. They collected additional implementation data at up to six of those institutions to gain a deeper understanding of the policies and practices that meet the needs of Black, Latinx, and low-income students. They also examined what adaptations the colleges made to advising structures, policies, and practices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This project is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.