Steven Gentile On Higher Education In TN
Steven Gentile is the Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and teaches education policy at Vanderbilt University. THEC plays a crucial role in advocating for an increase in the number of Tennesseans who obtain postsecondary credentials. In this episode, Stephen discusses the decision of whether to attend college, the benefits of choosing a technical degree, financial aid and grants, and THEC's future plans.
About Steven Gentile
Dr. Steven Gentile is the Executive Director at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). He progressed from Assistant Director of Fiscal Policy to Chief Policy and Strategy Officer. Previously, he was the Assistant Dean of Admission and Financial Aid at Davidson College.
Steven also teaches education policy at Vanderbilt University, engaging in course design, lectures, and student development. His research includes examining the effects of Tennessee Promise, federal PLUS loan regulations on HBCU enrollment, and lottery earmarks on funding stability.
He holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy (2019) and a Master of Education (2014) from Vanderbilt University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Davidson College (2006). Steven is also an alumnus of Leadership Tennessee NEXT and other leadership programs. He and his wife, Solvig, enjoy raising their children in East Nashville.
