Validation Engine for Observational Protocols

Dale Whittaker introduces himself as interim director of the Gates Foundation’s Postsecondary Learning & Navigation team and shares how the team’s work is evolving to help more learners earn credentials of value. He highlights three critical points in the learner journey—navigating to and through college, succeeding in foundational courses, and ensuring credits and learning carry forward—while underscoring the role of partners, innovation, and stronger connections across systems.

If your institution is pursuing an ambitious vision for AI-enabled transformation, we'd love to hear from you. Request for concepts officially open through September 11th. Full details, application materials, and FAQs are available at ailearninggrants.org.

The Gates Foundation has announced the next chapter of its long-term U.S. education strategy: an ambitious effort to help 10 million more learners earn credentials that lead to economic opportunity by 2045. Building on decades of partnership with educators, institutions, and communities, the strategy focuses on the critical moments in a learner's journey where targeted support can make the greatest difference. As part of this next chapter, Patrick Methvin will serve as Interim President of the U.S. Program beginning September 1, following Allan Golston's transition after 27 years of leadership. Together with an experienced leadership team, the foundation will continue advancing a learner-centered strategy designed to strengthen educational pathways and expand opportunity for millions more students.