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Like all trends, #KYHigherEd enrollment moves in slow-rolling waves - and we’re glad to see we’re rising out of the trough. With a shrinking high school population, it's especially encouraging that a growing percentage of students are choosing postsecondary! #KYHigherEdMatters

Sometimes we concentrate so much on course performance, we don't see how things play out at a campus level. Why does that matter? RETENTION. This is especially true of our first-generation, low-income or adult students. Keep innovating, but also be consistent. #KYHigherEdMatters

Enjoyed speaking at Alice Lloyd College's graduation ceremony today in Pippa Passes. Appreciate President Stepp giving me this opportunity and being part of such an transformative milestone in student lives is why I am love working in higher education.

When we talk about the student mental health crisis, we often focus on diagnoses. But stress, especially from work, caregiving and isolation, can be just as harmful. Empathy and connection matter when it comes to retention and completion. #KYHigherEdMatters

Over the weekend, I had the honor to speak at the Kentucky College of Art & Design’s commencement ceremony. Appreciate president Moira Scott Payne for allowing me to speak with her students and continue spreading the value of postsecondary education around the commonwealth.

It’s not the major—it’s the student mindset. Too many times, they pick what sounds “fun” or "interesting" without a plan for life after the diploma. Strong, intentional advising from day one helps connect passion to purpose - and CPE is working to improve that. #KYHigherEdMatters

Thank you so much, JA of the Bluegrass, for the honor. I deeply appreciate what your organization does for the region. To be recognized by such a high-caliber group of individuals does my heart proud.

Today, I hope you take a moment to reflect upon the brave service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their dedication and courage are the keystone to the freedoms we citizens enjoy every day.

This week, CPE hosted a public relations officers (PROs) retreat with campus communicators to provide crisis communications training and strengthen our campus partnerships. HUGE thanks to Dominic Manecke at C2 Strategic Communications for sharing his valuable insights with us!

1 in 10 college students nationally earns more than one credential, often a certificate alongside their degree. These stackable paths build real-world skills without the time or cost of a second major. More short-term programs = more adaptable grads. #KYHigherEdMatters

#GEARUPWorks, but the program may be on the federal chopping block depending on budget outcomes. We must protect this vital resource. Staff deliver the essential college prep many schools don’t have the capacity to provide. Learn more about GUK: gearupky.org/about/gearupwo…

Today, we honor Juneteenth: a powerful symbol of freedom, a testament to resilience, and a call to action. Understanding our history is not just an academic obligation, but a personal responsibility to ensure justice and progress for all peoples.

Employers say grads lack key workplace skills like communication, teamwork & leadership. With more students learning fully online, CPE's KY Graduate Profile learning framework ensures these essentials are built into the curriculum to foster development. #KYHigherEdMatters

One of my favorite ways to break up the routine of office work and meetings is to spend time with students—and this group did not disappoint! Grateful for the opportunity to visit with the Governor’s Scholars at Centre College. Their energy, insight and passion never fail to inspire.

Students aren’t the only ones struggling with mental health. Faculty face serious challenges, too. Compassion fatigue is real. KY must keep investing in resources supporting the well-being of students & staff. When we're all stressed, we won't perform our best. #KYHigherEdMatters

Enjoyed being with some pretty talented folk attending Governors Scholars at Morehead State today. Thanks so much for the opportunity. Always a good time.

This is great news, however completion rates still could be improved. Last year, KY left $64.5M in Pell Grants unclaimed. While the new form may be better, it's still very difficult for our first-gen students. Increasing one-on-one assistance is the key. #KYHigherEdMatters

About a third KCTCS students transfer to a 4-year university, but fewer than half of those earn a bachelor’s. The transfer path isn’t as smooth as we think: we've got to work together to identify the trouble spots so every student has a clear route to success. #KYHigherEdMatters

Happy to accept the 2025 James Bryant Conant Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to education, from the Education Commission of the States at their #NationalForum. I am truly thankful for the many blessings that have made my career possible.

CPE head Aaron Thompson receives ECS James Bryant Conant Award for commitment to education nkytribune.com/2025/07/cpe-he… via @nkytribune Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education