National University in San Diego launched a Dissertation Completion Pathway aimed at helping doctoral candidates who are stuck at the ABD (all but dissertation) stage finish their degrees. The program recognizes prior coursework, offers bridge classes, faculty mentorship and tailored supports to reduce barriers tied to work, family and finances. NU said the pathway is intended to tap a pipeline of experienced community college faculty and staff who paused graduate progress and to strengthen the higher‑education workforce by returning trained professionals to campuses. The program partners with several two‑year systems including the City Colleges of Chicago and Dallas College to identify candidates. Administrators described the initiative as a way to convert near‑completed scholars into credentialed leaders for teaching and research roles, addressing both individual career needs and institutional shortages of doctorally qualified faculty.