Nevada System of Higher Education joins multistate effort to drive economic prosperity

NSHE working to set new goal for better-educated, better-trained residents 

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) is proud to announce that it has joined Lumina Foundation’s State Attainment Collaborative, a multi-state initiative aimed at helping states set goals that expand access to education and workforce training, ultimately leading to quality jobs. 

This effort will build momentum toward Goal 2040: By 2040, three-fourths of adults in the U.S. labor force will have college degrees or other credentials with value that lead to meaningful careers and economic mobility. 

Through the collaborative, NSHE will work alongside education, business, civic, nonprofit, and policy leaders from 12 other participating states — Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland,  Missouri, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, Washington and West Virginia — to define what makes a credential valuable, update its statewide educational attainment goals, and align policies and programs to support today’s students. 

“Setting strong educational goals is key to Nevada’s future,” said Chair of the Board of Regents Byron Brooks. “By joining this national effort, we’re reinforcing our commitment to ensuring every Nevadan has access to the education and training needed to thrive in a changing economy.” 

“This collaboration gives us the opportunity to take a fresh look at how we define success for Nevada’s learners,” said Chancellor Matt McNair. “As we align our goals with the needs of our state, our focus remains on creating meaningful pathways that connect education to economic opportunity and lifelong growth.” 

Lumina launched the country’s first national post-high school attainment goal in 2008, sparking a movement that led 49 states to establish their own state-specific targets. Since then, the share of working-age adults with college degrees or short-term credentials has grown from 39 percent in 2008 to 55 percent in 2023. 

“Setting clear goals for increasing degrees and workforce credentials demonstrates a state’s commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening its economy,” said Michelle Asha Cooper, Lumina’s vice president for public policy. “Through formal collaboration, states can refine goals, share lessons, and ensure they center on value for individuals, communities, and employers.” 

More than 20 states have attainment goals that expire this year, as higher education faces growing public and political scrutiny, along with increased pressure to demonstrate value and career alignment. 

By participating in this effort, NSHE aims to ensure that learning beyond high school translates into meaningful outcomes for residents and strengthens the state’s economy and workforce. 

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Callahan at ecallahan@nshe.nevada.edu or 702-522-7021.