America's ability to educate our people for the jobs of the 21st Century is going to be the determining factor in our country's economic future. Everyone knows that is a fact -- from the President of the United States and academics to the business and educational communities around the country.
Higher education institutions are playing a critical role in preparing students for the jobs in today's global economy and it is important for these institutions to play a leadership role in tackling the economic challenges that America faces today. Not only do these institutions have the best understanding of what skills Americans need to compete for -- and win -- jobs today, but they also have a huge economic impact on the communities where they are located.
This is exactly why we are seeing a new trend of higher education institutions looking to expand their reach -- both online and through opening campuses in new markets -- and why cities are welcoming these campuses with open arms.
Over the last several years, we've seen schools expand throughout the country and even around the world. Pepperdine University has campuses in Southern California, Northern California and international locations. Drexel University, based in Pennsylvania, recently
