Despite recent advances in digital and asynchronous learning, many students in the US are located in “education deserts”, where the lack of accessible higher educational institutions poses challenges. Bridging these accessibility gaps in underserved areas is essential to ensure equitable opportunities for all students.

Our two-part recorded Times Higher Education in partnership with Noodle webinar brings together the following panel of experts to address how universities can help overcome this strategic challenge.

• Stevara Haley Clark, interim associate dean for academic and student affairs, director of online education & associate professor in teaching, School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Laurie Cochenour, executive director of online learning, Office of Online Learning, University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

• Kathy Wasilewski, vice-president, university engagement & field placement, Noodle

• Julie Leventhal, senior managing director, student support & engagement, Noodle