What happens after 2030? Higher education leaders across the globe are asking a pivotal question: Are today’s goals enough to ensure a just, prosperous, and sustainable future — or is it time to chart a new path forward?

The Digital Education Council (DEC) is bringing this conversation to the forefront with its upcoming Executive Briefing, where it will unveil Re-Defining Sustainability: A Higher Education Perspective for Post-2030 — a global initiative designed to imagine the next era of sustainability.

Among the distinguished contributors is Austin Community College’s Dr. LaKisha Barrett. Barrett, the Associate Dean of Belonging and Purpose in Teaching and Learning and Biology Professor, helped shape the report’s global perspective. Her participation reflects ACC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation, and inclusive leadership — values at the heart of our mission to serve a rapidly evolving world.

“Sustainability is not just environmental—it is educational, cultural, ethical, and human-centered,” says Dr. Barrett.”

Barrett joins a panel of experts to share insights from the report. Developed by the DEC 2025 ESG & Sustainability Working Group with support from 44 institutions across 25 countries and regions, the report outlines:

  • Emerging sustainability priorities for the post-2030 agenda
  • Current institutional commitments and progress
  • Innovative sustainability initiatives already transforming the sector
  • Key performance drivers guiding the future of ESG

It represents one of the most comprehensive, collaborative efforts to understand how colleges and universities can drive sustainable impact in the decade ahead.

ACC faculty, staff, and students are invited to attend the session to learn more. The Executive Briefing will give attendees a first look at the 10 emerging post-2030 sustainability priorities identified by higher education leaders worldwide. 

You’ll get valuable insights and discover opportunities for institutions to integrate these insights into their sustainability planning and educational practices.

Date: Monday, December 15, 2025
Time: 9:30 a.m.

To learn more and to register for the session, visit the DEC website.