Highlights
COLUMBUS PROMISE COMMITS TO SENDING MORE STUDENTS TO CSCC FOR YEARS TO COME
Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
In November 2021, Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin launched the Columbus Promise, a three-year pilot program offering tuition-free access to Columbus State Community College (CSCC) for Columbus City Schools (CCS) students.
Key Highlight:
- By 2024, Hardin confirmed at the CSCC Workforce and Development Center that due to strong community support and positive outcomes from the pilot phase, the program would extend beyond its initial three-year period. He assured families that the Columbus Promise would continue to be available for their children in the future.
- The Columbus Promise initiative, spearheaded by Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin, offers comprehensive support to Columbus City Schools (CCS) students aiming for higher education. In addition to covering tuition and fees, the program provides a $500 stipend each semester and extensive academic and career support. It welcomes applicants regardless of GPA, undocumented status, enrollment status, or preferred degree. Funding is split between the City of Columbus and contributions from over 20 private sector entities and philanthropists.
- A third-party analysis by the W.E. Upjohn Institute highlighted the program’s success in significantly increasing college attendance among traditionally underserved students. By 2023, enrollment at Columbus State Community College (CSCC) among CCS graduates had risen sharply, with 90% of them being Columbus Promise scholars.
- Superintendent/CEO of Columbus City Schools Dr. Angela Chapman emphasized the program’s impact on first-generation college students and those from low-income households, noting nearly 80% of scholars are Pell-eligible. CSCC President Dr. David T. Harrison noted the academic and professional achievements of Columbus Promise scholars, many of whom are engaged in “earn and learn” internships in high-demand fields.
- Reflecting on his experience, Eder Pacheco Hernandez, a Columbus Promise scholar, highlighted how the program has supported his pursuit of a business management degree and future career aspirations. Ashley Logan from I Know I Can praised the partnership and the dedication of over 850 CCS graduates who applied for the program this year.
- Overall, the Columbus Promise initiative stands as a testament to community support and partnership in fostering educational opportunities for all eligible students in Columbus.
Image Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
