We are delighted to share that The Good Project has received funding from Lumina Foundation to launch a research study entitled “Good Work Value Alignment: Measuring the Non-Economic Value of Postsecondary Credentials Across Sectors,” which will begin this fall. This 15-month project will explore how students and professionals in high-need fields, including healthcare, IT/technology, and construction/architecture, define the value of post-high school credentials beyond purely economic measures. Building on nearly three decades of “Good Work” research, the study will elevate how meaning, purpose, social contribution, and identity shape learners’ and workers’ views of their education and careers.

Through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with a nationally representative sample, the research team will gather insights from today’s diverse student populations and professionals to inform more inclusive approaches to higher education and workforce development. One of the project’s key outcomes will be the development of a prototype tool to measure the non-economic value of credentials—capturing dimensions such as ethical responsibility, civic engagement, and community contribution. We look forward to sharing updates as the study unfolds and to contributing knowledge that helps institutions and employers better support students in preparing not only for available work, but for meaningful work. We are deeply grateful to Lumina Foundation for their generous support and partnership in advancing this work.