Magdalene R. Miranda-Ordonez
Higher education is a progressive industry, and yet research shows that it is not exempt from the gender gap conversation. At the 2016 CUPA-HR southwestern regional conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this subject was a hot button topic exploring where the industry currently stands, the potential for progress and concepts to conquer this uncomfortable reality. The gender gap will not disappear overnight or without effort; through understanding and dedication, it can become a thing of the past. Higher education is paving the way and has the influence to encourage other industries to follow and eliminate this problem. The following is intended to aid in the understanding and opportunity to eliminate the gender gap that currently exists in higher education.
A dictionary definition simplifies the gender gap as the inconsistency in prospects, status, attitudes, …show more content…
When it comes to the wage gap, it is important to identify where an institution is lacking and begin to implement the recommended solutions as needed. Evaluating metrics annually will provide results and show if the steps taken are creating the needed change. The continuous evolution of procedures and policy pertaining to wages and hiring are necessary. Stagnancy will only allow the issue to resurface; remaining proactive will continue to reduce the gender gap in higher education gradually.
The first step in eliminating the gender gap in higher education is understanding the complexity and the second is to be proactive in the approach. The knowledge of the gender gap and its complexity provides a valuable catalyst for acknowledging the need for change. Through metrics, Wage Tables with guidelines, and encouraging the advancement of women in top level positions; the wage gap may be eliminated from higher education in the near