In the fall of 2019, Sage was retained to work on two searches – one for UCLA and one for Tulane-- that had deep implications related to access and equity for these institutions. Both searches concluded in the spring, after the pandemic had closed both campuses and sent students home to study remotely, upending lives. Stepping into their new roles, the new Executive Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships at UCLA and the new Director for the Center for Academic Equity at Tulane had to craft strategies and plans to deploy resources – immediately and into the future – to increase access, equity and student success. Hunt Scanlon picked up this story that showcases two examples of how higher education leaders -- with strategic hires -- supported students in the crisis.