Norfolk Portsmouth Newport News, VA, November 4, 2026 — A former Virginia Secretary of Education is making a case for greater state investment in the commonwealth’s nonprofit private colleges. The advocate highlights these institutions as vital contributors to workforce development and the broader public good within Virginia.

The argument put forth by the former official emphasizes that Virginia’s nonprofit private colleges educate a significant portion of the state’s student population. Furthermore, these institutions are credited with producing professionals who are essential to the state’s economy and public services.

According to the advocacy, state support is needed to help bridge growing affordability gaps. These challenges have reportedly been made worse by recent changes in federal financing mechanisms that affect students and institutions.

The specific amount of increased investment sought was not detailed. The names of the specific nonprofit private colleges that would be most impacted by such an investment were also not provided. The nature of the federal financing changes and their direct impact on affordability were not specified in the summary.

The former Secretary’s appeal centers on the dual role these colleges play: not only in preparing students for the workforce but also in fulfilling critical public needs through their graduates and research. Addressing affordability is presented as key to ensuring these colleges continue to serve the commonwealth effectively.

The contractor’s name, specific timelines for implementation, or any outcomes of this advocacy were not included in the provided information.


Story summarized from the original created by James Dyke on cardinalnews.org, see more information here.

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