News Update

College access advocate named to Biden education team

The U.S. Education Department announced Michelle Asha Cooper will help lead the Biden-Harris administration’s higher education policies as acting assistant secretary for postsecondary education.

Cooper, a longtime advocate for educational, racial and economic equity, was most recently president of the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP), a national nonprofit organization that supports improving college access.

“She is one of the nation’s most trusted voices in championing success for students in higher education regardless of race, socioeconomic background or gender,” said Mamie Voight, IHEP’s interim president, in a statement.

Last week, the department announced a number of senior political appointees to lead the new administration’s education priorities.