With the fifth largest metropolitan area in the United States, Houston's college degree attainment rate is 28.4%, slightly below the national average of 29.4% among the 51 most populous metro areas in the country. By increasing that rate by just 1% point, Houston could boost its regional economy by $4.2 billion. 

Leading the effort is The Center for Houston's Future. By bringing together local business leaders, educators, and non-profit organizations, as well as fostering greater participation between high schools, 2-year community colleges, and 4-year universities, these organizations are working to ensure that students are given as many advantages as possible to prepare them for the next level of education.