Historical and predominantly Black community colleges often get overlooked when it comes to funding for higher education but leaders across the country are seeking ways to ensure adequate support for the institutions. Complete College America and Lumina Foundation organized a webinar to discuss the needs of these colleges and their crucial role in promoting equal opportunities for Black students. Chandra Scott, executive director of the group Alabama Possible, was a part of the discussion and emphasized the need for funding in providing wraparound services to under-resourced students. .
Alabama Possible is working to make higher education more accessible for students in the state. Through its annual campaign, "Alabama Goes to College," the group is raising awareness about available resources to help finance college education. Executive Director Chandra Scott said in an effort to remove financial barriers, the group is also promoting Alabama College Application Week. .
Universities in North Carolina are leaning on adult learners to address workforce gaps in the state, specifically in the shortage of teachers and nurses. By 2025, North Carolina is projected to have a deficit of nearly 13,000 nurses, and when it comes to teachers, the state needs more than 5,000 right now. Lori McClaren, executive director of the School of Professional Studies at William Peace University, said they are finding ways to support adult learners who have some college credit but no degree. .
Many employers are hiring college graduates if they also can show skills-based training, leading one Texas school to expand its Google Career Certificate program. South Texas College is a recent recipient of the "Innovation of the Year Award" for elevating its online Google certificate classroom. Computer-science professor Nicholas Hinojosa said the award recognizes an effort to offer students up-skilling and re-skilling with what are known as "micro-credentials." He said he believes it s helping with student success. .