Francesco C. Cesareo: The case for doubling Pell Grants

As colleges and universities across the nation, and many in the city of Worcester, commence a new academic year, we are collectively reminded of the ubiquitous need for additional financial resources to enable more individuals, specifically those with modest financial means, to obtain a college degree.

Since 1972, federal financial aid in the form of Pell Grants has provided transformational opportunities to countless students in their pursuit of a college degree. Nearly 90 percent of Pell Grant funds benefit students with a family income below $50,000 across all races and ethnicities.

These federal grants are an essential bridge to a college degree for students with a demonstrated financial need. For many, Pell Grants are the difference between pursuing a college degree and abandoning that dream. At Assumption, the Pell Grant program has immeasurably changed the lives of thousands of our students. Last year, 411 students — 18 percent of Assumption undergraduates — received a Pell Grant for a total of $1,911,652; an average award of $4,651 per student.

Since the program began nearly 50 years ago, Pell Grant increases have not kept pace with inflation nor increases in costs to attend a public or private college or university. In 10 years, the maximum Pell Grant has increased by only $1,150 and falls woefully short of what students from modest means require to attend college.

In 1975-76, the maximum Pell Grant covered more than three-quarters of tuition for a public four-year institution; today, it is 26 percent, and just 15 percent for private institutions. The number of students who could enroll in college to pursue a degree would increase exponentially if the maximum amount of Pell Grants doubled. 

Pell Grants help nearly 7 million low- and moderate-income students attend and complete college annually and has immeasurably changed the lives of thousands of students who attend one of the many Worcester-area colleges and universities. Without our students, Worcester would not only lose patrons who fuel the local economy, but they would also lose what these future leaders could contribute to the city after graduation.  

Naturally, some may point to colleges and universities and suggest that they lower fees such as tuition or room and board. Unfortunately, such is not an option as students expect colleges or universities to provide a host of services such as career and internship placement assistance; counseling services; recreational facilities; labs; co-curricular activities; state-of-the-art academic facilities; expert faculty and staff; and much more.

The aforementioned examples are part of the equation in providing to students a comprehensive education that prepares them to use their newfound knowledge and innate gifts to make meaningful contributions to the world in which they live.

By doubling the maximum grant from $6,495 to $13,000, Congress can make college possible for more deserving students. Many of these aspiring students who are motivated by ambition and a zeal to positively impact their communities require financial assistance through the Pell Grant. Increasing the amount of these grants is an investment for which there is a significant return in the enhancement of the intellectual capital of our city, state, and nation. 

As a nation regarded as one of the intellectual beacons of hope and innovation in the global community, we can, and must, do better for our students. Institutions of higher learning prepare and form the next generation of leaders both intellectually and personally as they become contributing and compassionate community members. And as our economy continues to recover in the aftermath of the pandemic, all facets of industry and business will yearn for individuals who can think creatively to address our most pressing challenges.  

Assumption University has partnered with several colleges and universities across the nation in calling upon Congress to double the maximum Pell Grant to help more students pursue a college education. It’s time for Congress to act. Providing students with increased access to higher education is an investment our nation cannot afford not to make.

Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph.D., is president of Assumption University