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Senate Bill 5194 & 5227

Advancing the Vision of Washington Senate Bills 5194 & 5227 at Highline College

Equity in Action

The Equity, Diversity & Transformation (EDT) Division serves as a catalyst for institutional change at Highline College. Through collaboration, advocacy, strategic initiatives, and community engagement, EDT works to embed equity into every aspect of the college experience, ensuring all students, employees, and community members have access to opportunities for success. 

Washington State's commitment to equity in higher education is reflected in Senate Bills 5194 and 5227, legislation that supports diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, access, and accountability across community and technical colleges. EDT helps bring these statewide priorities to life through programs, partnerships, and institutional transformation efforts at Highline College.

Understanding the Legislation

Senate Bill 5194

Creating More Equitable Institutions

SB 5194 established expectations for Washington's community and technical colleges to strengthen diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism efforts through strategic planning and systemic change. The legislation emphasizes:

  • Eliminating equity gaps in student access, retention, completion, and achievement
  • Increasing diversity among faculty and staff
  • Aligning institutional policies and practices with equity goals
  • Using data to identify and address disparities
  • Creating accountability measures for equitable outcomes

Senate Bill 5227

Building Capacity Through Education and Training

SB 5227 supports efforts to ensure colleges provide meaningful diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism learning opportunities while assessing campus climate and institutional effectiveness. Key priorities include:

  • Equity and antiracism professional development
  • Inclusive campus environments
  • Institutional learning and accountability
  • Campus climate assessment
  • Ongoing evaluation of equity initiatives

How EDT Advances These Goals at Highline College

Access

Reducing Barriers and Increasing Opportunity

One of EDT's primary responsibilities is helping remove barriers that prevent students from accessing higher education and support services. EDT collaborates across campus and with community partners to expand pathways to college, increase awareness of resources, and improve educational access for historically underserved populations. 

Examples include:

  • Financial aid outreach and advocacy
  • High school and community partnerships
  • Support for students navigating college systems
  • Programs that increase access to educational opportunities

This work directly supports the equity and access objectives outlined in SB 5194.

Student Learning and Success

Closing Equity Gaps

EDT partners with faculty, staff, and institutional leaders to advance student achievement and improve educational outcomes.

Through strategic planning, data-informed decision-making, and student-centered initiatives, EDT helps:

  • Identify and address disparities in student outcomes
  • Support culturally responsive practices
  • Promote equitable teaching and learning environments
  • Strengthen programs designed to improve student persistence and completion

These efforts align with state goals for increasing educational success among historically marginalized communities. See Trustee Report Feb. 19, 2026 and Trustee Report March 26, 2025

Community Partnerships

Strengthening Relationships Beyond Campus

Highline College serves one of the most diverse communities in Washington State. EDT works closely with:

  • K-12 school districts
  • Community-based organizations
  • Public agencies
  • Regional education partners
  • Community leaders

These partnerships help create pathways to higher education while ensuring Highline remains responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.Trustee Report Feb. 19, 2026 andTrustee Report March 26, 2025

Culture and Capacity

Transforming Institutions Through Equity

EDT supports a campus culture where diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and access are embedded throughout the institution.

Key efforts include:

  • Supporting campus climate initiatives
  • Advancing equity-minded leadership practices
  • Encouraging inclusive decision-making
  • Facilitating dialogue and collaboration
  • Supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism learning opportunities

This work closely reflects the intent of SB 5227 and helps build institutional capacity for long-term transformation.