Latest Book by Pullias Researcher Brings Homelessness in Higher Education into Focus
Issues related to food and housing insecurity among college students have likely existed for decades. However, their struggles have largely been invisible to policymakers and educational leadership until more recently. A new book looks at basic needs insecurity among college students and the pathways to creating policies and services that support them through the completion of a higher education degree.
Addressing Homelessness and Housing Insecurity in Higher Education: Strategies for Educational Leaders, authored by Ronald E. Hallett, Rashida M. Crutchfield, and Jennifer J. Maguire, provides information and tools for educators and higher education professionals to build effective institutional supports for college students facing housing insecurity. It defines the problem while putting into social, political, and economic context for higher education policy makers and practitioners at all levels. Discussions include how to identify and evaluate housing insecurity on campuses, the implementation of strategies to tackle the issue, and how to sustain those efforts over time.
“The entire process of attending postsecondary education gets impacted by basic needs insecurity,” notes Hallett, a research associate in the Pullias Center for Higher Education and a professor of organizational leadership in the LaFetra College of Education at the University of La Verne. “Homelessness and housing insecurity complicate access to college and generate issues related to persistence and retention, often concentrated in historically underserved populations.”
The book weaves in the stories of students experiencing housing and food insecurity and also provides insights from people who have been committed to serving these students. It highlights some promising practices while also identifying key areas that warrant continued attention. The authors draw from decades of research and policy development to define, frame, and humanize homelessness and housing insecurity within the higher education context. “The book not only enlightens leaders but also helps campuses to develop meaningful action plans through local evaluation and planning,” states Adrianna Kezar, Director of the Pullias Center.
“Access to higher education is an essential aspect of helping individuals and families acquire future stability,” shares Hallett, “most postsecondary institutions are becoming aware of these issues and are looking for resources.” This book is in many ways a suitable companion piece to Serving Students Who Are Homeless: A Resource Guide for Schools, Districts, and Educational Leaders, a prior book co-authored by Hallett.
“Educators play an important role in supporting students who are homeless — their actions make a significant difference in the long term academic success and future stability of these students,” he concludes.
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