In this report, we examined five kinds of equity-focused metrics in state OBF policies to determine the extent to which states prioritize the enrollment and success of students of color and students from low-income backgrounds:
- Enrollment metrics for students of color
- Success metrics for students of color
- Enrollment metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Success metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Metrics related to campus racial climate
While the inclusion of these metrics in policies is essential, how they are deployed is equally as important. Therefore, we also considered whether the metrics were mandatory, optional, or weighted. Weighted metrics are the most ideal. These are mandatory and are given additional value, so strong institutional performance on a weighted metric would garner greater advantage or funding.
Two-and Four-Year Institutions
In 2016, the Hawaii State Legislature provided $6.3 million for the University of Hawaii to create a performance funding system. Six measures that aligned with the UH Strategic Directions were established, and targeted goals were set.
The metrics and weighting include:
- Number of degrees and certificates awarded
- Number degrees and certificates awarded to Native Hawaiians
- Number of STEM degrees and certificates awarded
- Number degrees and certificates awarded to Pell recipients
- Percentage of students who graduate within 150% of time (three years for two year institutions, six years for four-year institutions)
- Number of students who transfer to a University of Hawaii four-year institution & transfer from a University of Hawaii two-year institution
Hawaii utilizes a success metric by race that prioritizes students who are of indigenous Hawaiian descent. This differs from the racial equity metrics of most other states, which focus on Black and Latino students. The policy does not include a metric that measures campus climate.
The policy is overseen by University of Hawaii System. To learn more, visit http://blog.hawaii.edu/hawaiigradinitiative/performance-funding-model/.
Two-Year Institutions |
|
| Enrollment of Students of Color | None |
| Success of Students of Color | Mandatory |
| Enrollment of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | None |
| Success of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | Mandatory |
| Measure Related to Campus Climate | None |
Four-Year Institutions |
|
| Enrollment of Students of Color | None |
| Success of Students of Color | Mandatory |
| Enrollment of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | None |
| Success of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | Mandatory |
| Measure Related to Campus Climate | None |
