Jonathan Reece, the University registrar, is set to participate in the 2025 Baden-Württemberg Seminar in Stuttgart, Germany, this October. He’s one of twelve attendees eager to dive into the German education system.
With a doctorate in educational leadership, Reece is part of the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). This seminar is organized by AACRAO and NAFSA: Association of International Educators, with support from the German Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts. Reece is particularly excited about visiting various campuses to explore the differences and similarities between German and U.S. higher education systems.
Recently, in July, Reece took part in Hill Day with 30 AACRAO members. They headed to Congress to advocate for important educational issues. Reece and fellow advocate Vanessa Jackson met with several North Carolina representatives to discuss doubling Pell Grant funding, protecting international students, and maintaining critical departmental budgets that support nontraditional and low-income students.
Reece highlighted that colleges serve as vital economic drivers for their communities, often being the largest employers in the area. This economic impact is significant as faculty, staff, and students contribute actively to local economies.
A key discussion point at Hill Day was the AACRAO’s proposal regarding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. They are pushing for a change that would allow four-year colleges to share credits with two-year institutions to retroactively grant associate degrees while students continue their studies at four-year colleges. Since its implementation, the UNC System’s Reverse Transfer Program has aided more than 2,400 students in earning their degrees.
This new proposal aligns with a growing trend in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focused on collaborative approaches to support student success. As educational landscapes evolve, understanding these differences globally can provide insights that enhance local practices.
For additional information, you can refer to the [AACRAO’s official statements](https://www.aacrao.org) or dive into further analysis on education policies affecting students today.
