A College and Career Nexus That Promotes Access for All Marginalized Students

Session Type: Demonstration/Performance

Abstract

This abstract synthesizes the scope of papers that explore strategies for cultivating and sustaining a K-20 nexus supporting historically marginalized groups in education. These papers address persistent inequities across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, examining integrative frameworks that foster continuous, equity-driven pathways from kindergarten through postsecondary education. Emphasis is placed on collaborative partnerships among schools, colleges, communities, and families to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure holistic support. Asset-based approaches and culturally responsive practices are central to promoting educational access, persistence, and success for marginalized learners. Collectively, the papers highlight the importance of shared leadership, sustainable resources, and policy alignment in advancing social justice and expanding opportunities for underrepresented students throughout their K-20 trajectory.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Urban Learning, Teaching, and Research

Chair

• Sheree Nicole Alexander, Atlantic City School District

Papers

• Racism, Resistance, and Emancipatory Praxis: Counter-Narratives of a Family of AAPI Educators in Urban Contexts - Katrina Liu, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

• Reimagining College Access: Centering Youth Wisdom and Aspirational Capital Beyond the Debt - Wendy Morrison-Cavendish, University of Miami; Deborah A. Perez, University of Miami; Kaitlyn Casanas, University of Miami

• The 'I' in Africa: African-American Students’ Explorations of Black Identity through Travel in Ghana - Cathryn A. Devereaux, Drew University

• Understanding The Relationship Between STEM and A-G Completion Rate At DASS High Schools And Traditional Public High Schools in California - Anthony Peña, California State Polytechnic University - Pomona

• Unforgetting College Access: TRIO Programs and the Preparation of First-Generation Women of Color - Aminah Crawford, Texas A&M University

Session Organizer

• John A. Williams, Texas A&M University