New research and reporting focus on how public trust in higher education is being shaped by perceived affordability gaps and weak transparency about costs. A Strada Education Foundation initiative, “Price Transparency Initiative: Rebuilding Confidence in Higher Education,” drew on more than 5,000 student, parent, and public responses to examine how people experience college cost information. The initiative argues that rebuilding confidence requires more than generic cost messaging—institutions must communicate pricing in ways that match how families actually evaluate value and affordability. It highlights trust as a governance and enrollment driver, not just a communications challenge. In parallel, discussions about governing boards emphasize that institutions are being judged on affordability, transparency, and accountability, with trust tied to whether students believe the price aligns with outcomes. For higher education leaders, these developments increase pressure on data-driven pricing communications, financial aid counseling practices, and cost transparency governance across admissions, enrollment management, and student services.