Higher education is under heightened scrutiny from policymakers, taxpayers, and students who increasingly demand evidence to demonstrate the value of a college degree and who are questioning whether pursuing a college degree is still “worth it” (Fry et al., 2024). While earning a degree remains a reliable pathway to stable, well-paying employment (Abel & Deitz, 2019), many point to shortcomings in preparing students for their future careers. Students crave meaningful career development throughout their college experience, and employers desire better alignment of college education with workforce skills (Stolzenberg et al., 2020; University Innovation Alliance, 2021). Higher education leaders are looking for research-informed guidance related to career preparation and transition programming.
Beyond Programs: Leadership Lessons from Ireland’s Inclusive Universities
During a recent sabbatical studying inclusive postsecondary education in Ireland, I visited four universities—University College Cork, Trinity College Dublin, Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, and Mary Immaculate
Ashley Rodrigues
July 20, 2026
