Transformative Journeys: Celebrating University Commencement – Insights from Ashland News

I’m writing about an important shift happening in society. The dominance of white men in many areas seems to be fading. But this change isn’t just about numbers. It’s a deeper, more complex issue.

Recently, I attended a graduation ceremony at the University of Texas at Austin. They awarded over 13,000 degrees that day, and it felt like a massive celebration. My granddaughter graduated with a chemistry degree. It struck me how many women crossed the stage compared to men, and the diversity of names was evident, too.

Looking up statistics about college demographics, I found that women now outnumber men in higher education, with a current ratio of about 57% to 43%. This trend started shifting back in the 1990s. Interestingly, white students make up about 41% of all college students, with 45% in four-year institutions and just 37% in two-year schools. It’s clear that as our educational landscape changes, so does the power dynamic in society.

Many white men, especially those without college degrees, feel threatened. In the 2024 election, a whopping 69% of this group voted for Donald Trump. He appeals to them by promising to restore their perceived lost power. Yet, it’s essential to recognize that their challenges stem from broader economic changes, such as automation and globalization, rather than from women or people of color advancing in society.

Trump’s narrative can distract them from the real issues—like the decline of union representation, which used to be a strong support system for blue-collar workers. Today, only 6% of these workers are part of unions, down from 36% at their peak. Instead of solving their problems, Trump’s policies may worsen their situation, leaving them even more reliant on government programs.

It’s a sad irony. While many find comfort in blaming others, they overlook the real drivers of their struggles. I can’t help but think back to the pre-Civil Rights South, where manipulation of race and class prevented poorer whites from uniting with Black communities. The historical patterns of division are hard to break.

At the commencement, two guest speakers encouraged graduates to take charge of their futures. While empowering, I wish they had emphasized the importance of understanding systems. Real change often requires challenging the very structures we exist within. Simply succeeding within those systems might not lead to the transformative change we need.

The corporate influence on our educational institutions complicates this further. At the ceremony, I noticed constant marketing messages flooding the experience. It’s notable that such a prestigious university could also be a hub for corporate interests.

In conclusion, the narrative surrounding power is shifting, but real understanding requires looking beyond immediate frustrations. As society evolves, the focus must be on uniting and addressing systemic issues rather than falling prey to divisive rhetoric. It’s time for all demographics, including white men, to realize the true sources of change and power in our society.

For more on demographics in education, you can check out Best Colleges.

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