programs
programs on Wazzu: a running collection of 2 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on programs in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around programs, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.

Food Recovery Fuels Student Success
## Food Recovery Fuels Student Success: A Growing Trend in Higher Education Across the nation, community colleges are increasingly recognizing a critical link: food insecurity significantly impacts student success. A growing number of institutions are implementing and expanding food recovery programs, a practical and impactful solution to combat hunger and bolster student persistence toward graduation. These programs aren't just about charity; they represent a strategic investment in student well-being and academic achievement. The core concept is simple: recover surplus, edible food from campus dining halls, catered events, and even local restaurants, and redistribute it to students in need. This minimizes food waste while providing a vital resource for those struggling to afford nutritious meals. Research consistently demonstrates that students facing food insecurity experience lower GPAs, reduced class attendance, and are more likely to drop out. Food recovery programs address this head-on, offering a tangible support system. Many institutions supplement recovered food with partnerships with local food banks and pantries, creating a robust safety net. The impact extends beyond immediate hunger relief; it fosters a sense of community and belonging on campus. As highlighted in our recent article, "New Data Shows How California’s Black-Serving Institutions Are Performing," similar initiatives addressing student needs are proving crucial for equitable outcomes. Ultimately, food recovery programs are a win-win: reducing waste, supporting student success, and building stronger, more resilient campus communities.

How Soon Could Colleges Lose Loan Access Under New Accountability Metric?
## How Soon Could Colleges Lose Loan Access? A New Accountability Metric Explained. The future of federal student loan access for colleges is facing a significant shift. A new accountability metric, focused on post-graduate student earnings, is poised to dramatically impact institutions nationwide. While most programs will see data released in 2027, with potential penalties—including loss of loan access—beginning in 2028, the timeline isn’t uniform. Some institutions have received extensions, a move student advocates argue could jeopardize student outcomes. Here’s the breakdown: **Key Timeline:** 1. **2027:** Initial data release on student earnings post-graduation. This data will be the foundation for assessing institutional performance. 2. **2028:** Potential penalties begin for programs failing to meet the new earning benchmarks. Penalties could range from heightened scrutiny to loss of eligibility for federal student loan programs. 3. **Variable:** Extension timelines granted to some institutions, creating a two-tiered system and raising concerns about equitable accountability. **What's Driving This Change?** The move aims to better align higher education with workforce needs and ensure students receive a return on their investment. By focusing on earnings, the metric seeks to hold institutions accountable for preparing graduates for successful careers. This shift adds pressure to already strained institutions, as seen at Clinton College, which is facing its own financial challenges. For a deeper dive into this evolving landscape, check out our recent article, "Pressures Mount at Cash-Strapped Clinton College.