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Scaling Transformation

As institutions mature, transformation moves beyond individual change initiatives to a networked approach to equitable student success, powered by partnerships, intermediaries, and shared learning.

Transformation begins within institutions: realigning structures, culture, routines, and business models to improve student outcomes. But it scales through connection. Institutions accelerate progress when they engage in trusted networks that broaden capacity and capabilities, enable peer learning, connect them to vetted partners, and provide the support needed to navigate complex change.

This page will explore how transformation evolves over time, from early efforts to sustained, system-wide impact, and how internal and external networks play a critical role in helping institutions move faster, learn continuously, and build lasting capacity.

From Change to Transformation

Transformation doesn’t happen in silos. It requires aligned partnerships, enabling infrastructure, shared accountability, and a broader ecosystem working toward shared outcomes. This section will outline lessons and insights about how partnerships and collaborations drive transformation at scale, moving beyond isolated efforts and innovations to build the shared infrastructure needed for lasting impact. It will explore who contributes and in what capacity, as well as how collective action creates durable shifts that work together to move from fragmented change to sustained, system-level progress.

Higher Endeavor is an extension of the institutional transformation work that the Gates Foundation has been investing in for more than a decade. The strategic goal of this work is to catalyze institutional transformation across the field of higher education. The efforts of this Ecosystem are meant to improve students’ experiences across the nation, increasing persistence and graduation rates, leading to a reduction in equity gaps.

Ecosystem Ambition: Support 200+ institutions in achieving clarity, commitment, capacity, and momentum toward transformation through a streamlined process:

  1. Field intermediaries build networks of institutions in need of support
  2. Participation requires that institutions assess their readiness for transformation.
  3. Intermediaries and supporting organizations engage in sensemaking with institutional leaders to develop and refine plans for transformation.
  4. Institutions move forward with implementation of transformation plans.
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These phases are connected—and continuous. Each cycle builds on the last, deepening impact and embedding equity-driven change over time.

Monitor

Track results, gather insights, and assess progress. Use data and voice to refine strategy and ensure equity stays at the center.

Act

Implement reforms through cross-functional coordination. Test strategies, support your teams, and adapt based on feedback and student outcomes.

Prioritize

Focus your resources on what matters most. Target high-impact strategies that advance equity, improve student experience, and align with your mission.

Reflect

Examine disaggregated data and student experiences to understand root causes. Identify what needs to change—and why it matters.

Prepare

Establish a shared vision. Define the challenge, build the team, and ground your work in equity and student success from the start.