Question: In 1965, the Higher Education Act allowed for expanded access to higher education by providing federal financial aid. Fast forward over 50 years and there continue to be challenges where underrepresented students do not graduate at the same rates as majority students. Based on the Higher Education act, one would believe that meritocracy is an enduring value in the U.S. In other words, if you work hard, then you should be able to achieve, regardless of your access to financial resources. However, the examples of Native American students and the Education Opportunity Program (EOP)students at SUNY demonstrate that hard work and access to finances alone are not sufficient. Why do you think these inequities exist? Should meritocracy be a value espoused by higher education professionals? Why/why not? What would it take to ensure that there is equity throughout higher education?