In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, demographic changes are reshaping the market for higher education. Over the next 15 years, colleges and universities will face significant challenges as they contend with declining family sizes—a trend influenced by low birth rates following the Great Recession—and a transition towards a more diverse student population. Each institution operates within a unique market context, possessing distinct organizational strengths that require tailored responses rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

In this essential follow-up to ‘Demographics and the Demand for Higher Education,’ author Nathan D. Grawe delves into how proactive institutions are preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. While reversing the demographic tide may be impossible, there are numerous strategies that institutions can implement to mitigate its effects. This insightful exploration is based on interviews with prominent leaders in higher education who share their experiences and strategies for success.

Grawe identifies several successful avenues of response that colleges can take, including:

Throughout the book, Grawe presents compelling examples from a diverse range of institutions—small and large, public and private, two-year and four-year, selective and open-access. Each case study serves as a catalyst for conversation regarding the best paths forward in light of demographic changes.

Ultimately, an effective response to these demographic shifts must reflect the individual context of each campus. By examining the successful strategies employed by various institutions, Grawe encourages leaders in higher education to engage in critical discussions and proactive planning. The insights gleaned from this presentation will not only help institutions navigate the forthcoming challenges but also inspire innovative approaches to fulfilling their educational missions.