Zachary Mabel is a research professor of education and economics at Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce. With expertise in equity in education and access to higher learning, Zachary has spent his career investigating the structural challenges in admissions processes and how they perpetuate inequality. His research informs policy decisions aimed at creating a more just and inclusive education system.

In this episode, Zachary dives into the complex dynamics of equity in education, starting with the entrenched meritocratic myths surrounding college admissions. From test scores that often reflect privilege rather than ability, to systemic barriers faced by marginalized students, he breaks down the ways in which our education system fails to deliver on its promise of equal opportunity.

Zachary discusses holistic admissions, their potential, and their limitations, highlighting tools like the College Board’s Landscape program, which seeks to contextualize applicants’ backgrounds. However, as he explains, these measures often address symptoms rather than the root causes of inequity. He emphasizes the need to focus on underfunded institutions like community colleges, where the majority of students from disadvantaged backgrounds are educated.

This thought-provoking conversation challenges us to look beyond surface-level solutions and consider structural changes that bring equity to all levels of education. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or advocate for systemic reform, this episode is an eye-opening exploration of what it means to create a truly equitable educational landscape.