National Data on Institutionalizing Global Learning: Navigating Political, Policy, and Populist Pressures

In an era of shifting policy priorities and public debate, colleges and universities are reexamining how to sustain global engagement while preparing students for life, work, and citizenship in an interconnected world. This session will present new national data from AAC&U’s 2025 study on global learning and institutional transformation in US higher education, reflecting perspectives from more than seven hundred higher education stakeholders across the United States. Presenters will share where institutions are strengthening global learning within curricula, assessment, and workforce alignment—and where emerging challenges or slowdowns are anticipated. Drawing on the forthcoming US adaptation of the Internationalisation at Home Handbook, the session will link national data with international practice to highlight adaptable models and evidence-based strategies for institutionalizing global learning. Participants will gain research insights, practical tools, and communication strategies for sustaining progress amid evolving policy and public contexts.