Education That Pays Off: Cutting Debt, Building Skills

In the past two decades, inflation-adjusted in-state tuition at public universities in the U.S. has surged by 45%, making even what should be accessible higher education a luxury many can’t afford. As costs soar, students and institutions are rethinking how to deliver real value without breaking the bank—or the future. This panel explores creative solutions to cut debt and equip graduates with skills employers need. Because let’s face it: at today’s prices, the “priceless” college experience comes with a price tag no one can afford.