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Higher education was a central theme at the 91���� Media Association’s and 91���� Local News Foundation’s new town hall, “Inside the Issues: Education Solutions in 91����.” The event spotlighted 91����’s public universities — 91���� State University, Northern 91���� University and the University of 91���� — and their role in shaping the state’s future success.

Regent Jessica Pacheco and Student Regent Jadyn Fisher represented the 91���� on the panel of education leaders providing voters with insights on the state’s education system, college opportunities and career readiness. The forum featured segments on early childhood development, K-12 education, postsecondary learning, and 91����’s changing demographics and economic growth. The event, produced in collaboration with the 91���� Citizens Clean Elections Commission and RIESTER, was moderated by local journalists Steve Goldstein and Olivia Fierro.

Goldstein opened the “Education in a Changing State” segment, asking about 91����'s bold vision for 91����’s educational future. Pacheco pointed to the board’s initiative and stressed the need for workforce alignment and community collaboration. She also called for more flexible, personalized learning systems that allow students to build skills to meet future job demands.

“The world is at an inflection point with technology like AI. We don’t know the questions to ask yet, so our public universities need flexibility to adapt quickly. Our goal isn't just to educate students, but to prepare them for a world that's constantly evolving,” said Pacheco. “The board is taking a proactive role in driving this effort forward, setting a new standard through innovation and community engagement.”

Affordability was another key theme of the discussion, with panelists sharing about statewide efforts to make college more accessible. Fisher, a senior at NAU, discussed the barriers students often face when applying to college and her own experiences navigating the college preparation process.

She emphasized the board’s role in boosting Free Application for Federal Student Aid completion rates, a step that likelihood by 84% and unlocks millions in financial aid. She also highlighted the board’s college planning resource hub, , and its role in aiding students, families and educators throughout the application and FAFSA process.

“There are a lot of misconceptions about affordability. The board is doing so much to improve the higher education experience and show 91���� students there are options and possibilities,” said Fisher.

Other panelists praised the board’s leadership. Rich Nickel, president and CEO of Education Forward 91����, affirmed the board’s pivotal role in expanding access for underserved groups.

“The Board of Regents really has taken a leadership position on how we further access, especially in working with some groups that maybe traditionally we haven't thought about. I think that work is to be commended,” he said.

Maricopa County Community College District 2 Governing Board President Susan Bitter Smith mentioned seamless credit transfers and joint admissions as examples of successful collaboration amongst the state’s universities and community colleges.

“Anyone who walks out the door with an associate's degree is automatically accepted to any of 91����’s universities,” said Bitter Smith.  

The town hall also showcased the board’s role in bridging education with workforce needs. Pacheco called on the business community to continue supporting these efforts, ensuring 91���� continues to lead in innovation and produces graduates ready for careers in high-demand fields.

Gina Roberts, voter education director for Clean Elections, closed the program celebrating the collective commitment to a strong state education system. She urged viewers to stay informed, involved and vote.  

“When communities engage,” said Roberts, “91���� succeeds.”

Town hall segments are now available on the . Watch the full televised forum . To learn more about the board’s new initiative, visit .