Alabama Commission on Higher Education

From the passage of the College and Higher Education Excellence and Results (CHEER) Act to the metrics driving this new funding framework, Sen. Orr walks through how Alabama is tying public investments in higher education directly to student outcomes — degree completion, job placement, wages and long-term economic mobility — and what that means for students, institutions and the workforce.

Listen now for an inside look at one of the most significant shifts in Alabama higher education policy in recent memory!

Statehouse Spotlights - Season 3, Episode 15:
Funding what works: Alabama’s outcomes-based approach to higher education | Sen. Arthur Orr
Listen Here >>> https://shows.acast.com/excelined-in-action-statehouse-spotlights/episodes/15-funding-what-works-alabamas-outcomes-based-approach-to-hi?utm_source=ExcelinEd+Updates&utm_campaign=318a291c72-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2026_05_14_01_30&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_9c642535c4-318a291c72-272625066

✨ Today marks the kickoff of Alabama’s Legislative Session! We’re ready to advocate for higher education, champion our institutions, and serve our stakeholders with purpose and passion. Here’s to a productive, impactful, and successful session ahead! 🚀📚

📊 ACHE In the News: College Degrees and Long-Term Earnings

New analysis from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) highlights an important reality: while college degrees may not pay off immediately after graduation, the long-term return becomes clear by age 30.

Early in the workforce, earnings can look similar across education levels, and in some cases, those who delay or skip college may earn more initially. However, by the late 20s and early 30s, individuals with associate and bachelor’s degrees see significantly higher earnings, with the wage gap continuing to widen over time.

🎓 Key takeaways:
• Postsecondary education delivers a strong long-term wage premium
• The financial return on education increases with time
• Aligning education pathways with workforce needs remains critical

This insight reinforces the value of informed education and career planning, and the importance of policies that support access, completion, and alignment with Alabama’s workforce.

🔗 Read more: https://loom.ly/RcalCUA
🔗 Visit ACHE's White Page: https://loom.ly/Eks2Yqs

Thank you Alabama Daily News for publishing this article!

ACHE: College degrees may not pay off right away, but by 30, the gap is clear As Americans continue to debate whether a college degree is still worth the cost, a new analysis from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education shows the answer is yes, even if college doesn’t always look like it pays off right away.

Happy New Year!

Wishing you a 2026 filled with purpose, kindness, and a continued commitment to leading with respect and compassion.

May 2026 be your best year yet!

We hope everyone had a great Christmas holiday and are looking forward to ringing in the New Year!

Just as a reminder, our offices will be CLOSED tomorrow and will reopen on Friday, January 2nd.

Wishing everyone a safe and blessed New Year's eve!

Just a gentle reminder that the Alabama Commission on Higher Education is closed today and will reopen on Monday, December 29. We hope everyone is enjoying a joyful and restful Christmas holiday!

🎄 Merry Christmas from ACHE 🎄

The Alabama Commission on Higher Education wishes our students, educators, institutions, and partners a joyful Christmas filled with peace, reflection, and time with loved ones.

Thank you for all you do to support higher education across Alabama. We look forward to continuing our work together in the year ahead.

✨🎄 Christmas Eve — the most wonderful night of the year 🎄✨

As we celebrate this special evening, the Alabama Commission on Higher Education wishes our students, educators, institutions, and partners peace, joy, and time with those who matter most.

May your night be filled with hope, reflection, and holiday cheer.

Friendly Holiday Reminder 🎁

Per Governor Kay Ivey’s directive,📄the Alabama Commission on Higher Education will be closed Wednesday, December 24 – Friday, December 26 for the holidays.

We’ll be back and ready to serve you on Monday, December 29. ✨

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and restful Christmas season! 🎄

Do you receive the daily SHEEO Policy Email Updates? 📩 If so, you may have seen ACHE featured in today’s state policy coverage, highlighting the impact of Alabama’s Success Plus Plan and its focus on increasing credential attainment and aligning education with workforce needs. ✅Proud to see this work recognized at the national level.