Pepperdine University president Andrew K. Benton has been named one of three inaugural vice chairs of the national Commission on Higher Education Attainment. The commission is made up of six representatives from higher education institutions throughout the country. Its goal is to improve college retention and attainment to “restore the nation’s higher education preemincence.”
“My colleagues and I accept this challenge eagerly,” Benton said. “Americans are justifiably proud of their colleges and universities. Our diversity of approach combined with our common commitment to doing the best we can for our students is, I think, an enviable strength. Still, we can and must do better. The higher education community must own and shape the future and this commission is a good and meaningful place to begin.”
The commission’s first meeting will take place on Monday, Oct. 31, at the American Council on Education’s Washington, D.C., offices. It is expected to complete its work by fall 2012.