‘Press Releases’ Category

Nonprofit, fully online Western Governors University (WGU), and White Earth Tribal & Community College (WETCC), today announced they have entered into a new joint partnership. Under the terms of the agreement, WETCC employees and graduates will be offered affordable pathways to earning their bachelor’s or master’s degree through WGU. The goal of the partnership is to provide expanded higher education and professional development opportunities for WETCC employees and graduates in hopes of building a future-ready workforce in Minnesota.

“WETCC is excited to announce a partnership with WGU, which will provide another pathway for students and the community to access higher education,” said Dr. Francis Oakgrove, Academic Dean of White Earth Tribal & Community College. “This partnership provides programs that will meet the workforce needs of our community while reducing the barriers to access through online education, which is a challenge for rural communities.”

White Earth Tribal & Community College is a private institution of higher learning dedicated to academic excellence grounded in Anishinaabe culture, values and traditions. With 38 employees and 144 students, the college serves 10 tribes across rural Northern Minnesota, as well as the local community. WGU provides students graduating from WETCC with affordable access to more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology and health professions, including nursing. Those who enroll in any of WGU’s programs will be able to apply for the Community College Partner Scholarship, which is valued at up to $2,500 each and will be applied to WGU’s already-low, flat-rate tuition of about $3,800 per six-month term.

WETCC students transitioning to WGU will be also able to take advantage of the university’s online-competency-based education model, which will allow them to use prior education and work-based experience to move through courses at their own pace and graduate quicker. Students study, complete coursework and take tests on schedules that fit their lives, advancing as soon as they demonstrate they have mastered the subject matter. Like all students at WGU, WETCC employees and graduates who enroll will also be paired with a program mentor who has expertise in their chosen degree program and supports students in learning and navigating their educational journeys from enrollment through graduation.

“We are pleased to provide continuing education options to graduating students and staff of White Earth Tribal & Community College,” said Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University. “Both WETCC and WGU are committed to providing busy adults from underserved communities with access to high-quality education and preparing these individuals for dynamic and rewarding careers that promote lifetime success and meet workforce needs of the region. This partnership will help support those efforts.”

For more information on the partnership between WGU and White Earth Tribal & Community College, visit wgu.edu or wetcc.edu.

About WGU
Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable higher education, online, nonprofit WGU now serves more than 140,000 students nationwide and has more than 300,000 graduates in all 50 states. Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in postsecondary education. In just 25 years, the university has become a leading influence in changing the lives of individuals and families, and preparing the workforce needed in today’s rapidly evolving economy. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and has been featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at wgu.edu.

About WETCC
White Earth Tribal and Community College (WETCC) is a small, two-year institution of higher education located in rural northwestern Minnesota on the White Earth Reservation with a mission to provide academic excellence grounded in Anishinaabe culture, values, and traditions. The White Earth Tribal Council chartered WETCC in October 1997 as a nonprofit tribally-controlled educational institution of higher learning. WETCC was granted membership to the American Indian Higher Education Consortium in 1998 and designated as a Land Grant Institution in 2002. The majority of WETCC’s students are first-generation and Native American. High unemployment, persistent poverty, and the vast geographic area of the Reservation create challenges for people living here who are seeking higher education. WETCC has worked to address barriers to education and increase student success since it was established. It is a beacon of hope for the people who live here and an opportunity for a brighter future while embracing the culture and teachings of the Anishinaabe people.

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For more information, contact: 

Merisa Ashbaugh 

314-436-9090 

merisa@hausergrouppr.com

(more…)

The St. Clair County Transit District’s (SCCTD) Board of Commissioners last week awarded a contract to Hank’s Excavating and Landscaping Inc. for construction of Phase III of the Old Collinsville Road Trail. The $2.03 million contract is for the development of a 0.8 mile trail that will run along Old Collinsville Road from Munie Road to Frank Scott Parkway East.

This latest phase will further extend the reach of the MetroBikeLink System, which features 14 continuous miles of trails in Southwestern Illinois and links users to six Metro Transit Centers, where area residents can access MetroLink, MetroBus and microtransit options including the SCCTD Flyer and VanGo. Bikes can be brought on MetroLink and all MetroBuses are equipped with exterior racks.

“This latest award will only strengthen connectivity in St. Clair County while at the same time offering residents and visitors a healthy amenity in our community,” said Herb Simmons, Chair of the St. Clair County Board of Trustees.  “Our goal is to deliver a world-class system, and the MetroBikeLink system is an integral part made possible through all of our local partnerships including local contractors.”

Phase III of the Old Collinsville Road Trail is projected to be complete by the Fall of 2023.

SCCTD is committed to ensuring a safe, effective and efficient transit system. To learn more, call (618) 628-8090 or visit www.scctd.org.

Founded in 1981, St. Clair County Transit District contracts with Bi-State Development to provide public transportation services in St. Clair County, Ill., by way of 11 Metro Transit Centers; 12 MetroBus routes; on-demand, shared-ride services and more – connecting individuals to jobs, education, healthcare, entertainment, the MetroBikeLink and other destinations.

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For more information, contact: 

Kelly Harris 

(314)898-8116 

kelly@hausergrouppr.com 

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Nonprofit, fully online Western Governors University (WGU) and industry-leading marketing analytics organization Digital Analytics Association (DAA), today announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to help meet the critical workforce need for skilled marketing analytics professionals. Together, WGU and DAA will seek to provide a streamlined approach and expand access to higher education and industry networking opportunities for those who wish to pursue their bachelor’s or master’s degrees through WGU. The partnership will further both organizations’ missions of continuing to develop the talent pipeline in hopes of building a future-ready workforce.

“We are so excited to launch this partnership with Western Governors University,” said Kimberly Mosley, Executive Director at Digital Analytics Association. “We are working together to strengthen the industry by building a rich, diverse pipeline of professionals in analytics.”

Designed with DAA and other industry partners to fulfill the need for positions in the ever-evolving labor market, WGU’s College of Business has launched two new Master of Science in Marketing degrees featuring degree options in Digital Marketing and Marketing Analytics. These programs provide industry-relevant courses in search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, data analytics, e-commerce, and more where students will gain advanced knowledge and skills to help them progress in their career, gain a competitive edge in the job market and maximize their earning potential. WGU’s online marketing master’s degree also aligns with the Online Marketing Certified Associate (OMCA) industry certification and serves as a prep course for those interested in expanding their industry knowledge.

“We are excited to provide WGU students with industry-relevant programs built through industry partnerships,” said Dr. Sandra D. Sjoberg, Associate Dean and Director for Marketing and Innovation Programs at Western Governors University. “The benefits offered by DAA will provide our students with networking and professional development opportunities as they earn their degree. WGU students will be better positioned to showcase their expertise and knowledge giving them an advantage in advancing their careers. Employers will also benefit as the networking and community aspect of our student DAA memberships will help connect qualified applications with open positions. Not only are the MS in Marketing degree programs industry-relevant, but they are also industry-engaging by connecting both faculty and students with professionals in their field of study.”

Under the terms of the agreement between DAA and WGU, students who enroll in WGU – as well as eligible university faculty and staff – will be granted the opportunity to become DAA members and will be afforded access to an array of exclusive benefits focused on professional development, career resources and community and networking. Additionally, students will also be eligible to take advantage of scholarships to make tuition even more affordable. Specifically, the WGU Partner Connect Scholarship is valued at up to $2,500 and is designed for members and employees of WGU’s partners, including DAA, who wish to advance their education. The scholarships will be disbursed in increments of $625 per six-month term and can be renewed for up to four terms based on satisfactory academic performance.

WGU offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology and health professions, including nursing. The university pioneered online, competency-based education, a model that allows individuals to further their education and careers on their own timeline, no matter where they live. This approach allows students to take advantage of prior learning and work-based experience to move through courses at their own pace. Students study, complete coursework and take tests on schedules that fit their lives, advancing as soon as they demonstrate they have mastered the subject matter. All students at WGU who enroll will be paired with a program mentor who has expertise in their chosen degree program and supports students in learning and navigating their educational journeys from enrollment through graduation.

“We’re pleased to partner with the Digital Analytics Association and present their members and employees with an affordable pathway to furthering their education,” said Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University. “In return, this partnership provides not only a unique opportunity for WGU to gain global recognition among the digital analytics community, but also enhances our students’ studies and careers and, in turn, their lives. Similarly, this collaborative effort will help grow our faculty’s network and education through DAA membership.”

For more information about WGU and its partnership with Digital Analytics Association, visit wgu.edu or digitalanalyticsassociation.org.

About Digital Analytics Association

About the Digital Analytics Association (DAA) The DAA is a not-for-profit, volunteer-powered association whose mission is to foster community, advocacy, and professional development that empowers you and your team to deliver value through analytics. Founded in 2004, DAA’s vision is to unlock your potential through analytics. The organization is a community of over 17,000 people around the world, representing a broad spectrum of data expertise and industries. For more information about the DAA, or to become a member, visit the DAA website at www.digitalanalyticsassociation.org.

About WGU
Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable higher education, online, nonprofit WGU now serves more than 140,000 students nationwide and has more than 300,000 graduates in all 50 states. Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in postsecondary education. In just 25 years, the university has become a leading influence in changing the lives of individuals and families, and preparing the workforce needed in today’s rapidly evolving economy. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and has been featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at wgu.edu.

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For more information, contact: 

Merisa Ashbaugh 

314-436-9090 

merisa@hausergrouppr.com

(more…)

WGU Missouri today announced the return of its “Fund My Classroom” initiative, issuing a call for K-12 teachers across the state to nominate their proposed classroom projects for the opportunity to receive full or partial funding. The fully online, nonprofit university is pledging up to $100,000 in grant money across four states for K-12 teachers who have innovative ideas that will further engage their students but need funding to help bring these ideas to life. Teachers can submit their proposed projects online at wgu.edu/fundmyclassroom through April 14. Selected classroom projects will be announced during Teacher Appreciation Week, which runs May 8-12.

K-12 educators can request funding for any type of uniquely creative classroom project they believe would provide an enriching classroom experience for their students – from books, supplies and equipment or technology, to classroom experiences and field trips. To be considered, proposed projects must include a description detailing how much funding is needed and how the proposed project will benefit students. Both public and private school teachers are encouraged to submit applications. Teachers do not have to be WGU students or alumni to apply.

“When it comes to expanding classroom curriculum and employing state-of-the-art techniques to engage and challenge students, K-12 teachers are often limited by the costs associated with providing impactful educational learning,” said Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of WGU Missouri. “That’s why we are proud to once again offer ‘Fund My Classroom’ as a way to help make a difference in classrooms across the state and show appreciation for our teachers, who work tirelessly to educate young minds. We hope to be able to fund dozens of innovative projects that will play a role in setting up our children for success later in life.”

This is the fifth consecutive year WGU Missouri is making the “Fund My Classroom” initiative available for Missouri teachers. In the four previous years, the university has awarded more than $110,000 in grant funding toward 146 classroom projects in Missouri. The university hopes to continue to fund dozens of projects throughout Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, and Minnesota this year.

Some of the classroom projects in Missouri that were funded last year through WGU’s “Fund My Classroom” initiative included: a community garden at Glasgow Elementary School in the Riverview Gardens School District in St. Louis, which provides second-grade students with the chance to plan and maintain a garden and gain experience in sustainability, team building, and community; a classroom cottage project at Diamond High School near Joplin, Mo., where special education students learn how to start and manage a small business and learn the basics of designing, producing, marketing, and selling products; air fryers and Instant Pots® for use at Bronaugh R-7 School in Bronaugh, Mo., where consumer science students learn how to operate and utilize small kitchen appliances as part of their class’s cooking unit; large print books for K-8^th grade students at Nell Holcomb School in Cape Girardeau, Mo., building on an effort to improve word recognition and reading comprehension among students; and a new camera for yearbook students at Laura Speed Elliot Middle School in Boonville, Mo.

Anyone interested in nominating themselves, colleagues, family or friends can fill out the short application available at wgu.edu/fundmyclassroom. Nominees must reside in Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, or Minnesota.

About WGU Missouri

WGU Missouri is a competency-based, online university created to expand access to higher education for Missouri residents. The university offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology, and health professions, including nursing. WGU Missouri faculty members serve as mentors, working one-on-one with students, offering guidance, support, and individualized instruction.

Established in 2013 through a partnership with nationally recognized Western Governors University, WGU Missouri is open to all qualified Missouri residents. The university is nonprofit and self-sustaining on flat-rate tuition of about $7,000 per year for most programs.

Degrees are granted under the accreditation of Western Governors University, which is accredited through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Nursing College programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE*), and the Health Informatics program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

More information is available at missouri.wgu.edu or by calling 855.948.8493.

*Western Governors University offers nursing programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 5380, Washington DC 20036, 202-877-6791).

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For more information, contact: 

Merisa Ashbaugh 

314-436-9090 

merisa@hausergrouppr.com

(more…)

To help underscore the benefits of public transit and encourage consistent use among the St. Louis area’s college students, faculty and staff, Citizens for Modern Transit, Metro Transit and St. Clair County Transit District – in partnership with St. Louis Community College, Saint Louis University, Southwestern Illinois College, University of Missouri–St. Louis and Washington University in St. Louis – today launched the “College Transit Challenge” Initiative. From Friday, March 3, to Friday, March 10, those affiliated with the respective schools are encouraged to use their Metro U-Pass to take transit as often as they can. Ridership will be tracked via mobile texting. The school with the most ridership will be awarded bragging rights, and all challenge participants will be entered to win a selection of prizes.

The challenge kicked off at 9 a.m. today with a Mascot Meetup at the Cortex MetroLink Station. Representatives for the transit organizations, along with college and university representatives and students, shared remarks on the benefits of transit access before they and mascots Archie, the Billiken, Kashmir the Snow Leopard, Louie the Triton and the Bear took MetroLink from Cortex to Union Station to mark the official start of the weeklong campaign.

“Public transit access – via MetroLink and MetroBus – is readily available at these five colleges and universities, offering a safe and convenient means to get to and from campus, work, doctor appointments, grocery stores, area attractions, nightlife or wherever else students and eligible staff need or want to go,” commented Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “There are many benefits associated with taking transit, and the system is easy to use. Plus, the Metro U-Pass makes it super affordable because it provides unlimited rides on MetroBus and MetroLink during the school year for nearly 38,000 eligible students, faculty and staff.”

Chief Operating Officer at Metro Transit Chuck Stewart added, “Through our partnerships with area colleges and universities, we are excited to provide students with this invaluable resource. We encourage them to take full advantage of the Metro U-Pass, not just for their important trips to class and education, but also to connect with everything the St. Louis region has to offer.”

Students, faculty and staff of the participating colleges and universities who are interested in participating in the challenge must first register by visiting www.CollegeTransitChallenge.com and entering their name, school affiliation and cell phone number. They will then receive a text message to confirm campaign registration. During the weeklong challenge period, participants will receive a daily text message asking them how many times they rode transit, which mode was utilized and to where. Usage will also be tracked via social media. All participants will be included in a daily drawing for prizes, $50 gift cards, transit passes, “College Transit Challenge” schwag and much more.

“Public transit plays a vital role in making education more accessible for students, especially as they face growing demands on their schedules and pocketbooks,” said D’Andre Braddix, Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at St. Louis Community College.

Saint Louis University student Quique Riojas added “I don’t have a car and like many college students, I have come to a different city without any means of getting around other than my own two feet. Thanks to public transit, I’ve been able to explore the city and fall in love with it. I can build roots in this city, I can buy at local shops, meet local people and enjoy the local culture without worrying about traffic, gas, parking or insurance. Students have an opportunity to show support for this wonderful service and I encourage them to make a special effort this month to use the system, show people how useful it is, and how important it is that we support it.”

As part of the challenge, members of student organizations affiliated with the partnering schools are encouraged to attend a mid-week event on Thursday, March 9, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Sugarfire Smoke House, which is adjacent to the Convention Center MetroLink Station in downtown St. Louis. The group with the most attendance will receive $250 to support its efforts.

Students who have not obtained their Metro U-Pass should check with their respective university or college to find out where they are distributed on campus. Additional information about the campaign, instructions on how to register and specifics regarding the Metro U-Pass Programs for the respective schools can be found at www.CollegeTransitChallenge.com.

Citizens for Modern Transit is a nonprofit, member supported organization that leads efforts for an integrated, affordable, and convenient public transportation system with light rail expansion as the critical component that will drive economic growth to improve quality of life in the St. Louis region.

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For more information, contact: 

Kelly Harris 

(314)898-8116 

kelly@hausergrouppr.com 

(more…)

To serve the Sedalia community, UScellular has opened a new, full-service mobile store next to Tacos El Charro in the parking lot of the former Broadway Lanes at 2119 West Broadway Blvd.

“UScellular has heavily invested in its 5G network in Sedalia and the mobile store allows us to meet our customers where they are as we strive to bring connectivity and capability to local markets,” said Nick Williams, store manager for UScellular in Jefferson City and this new mobile location. “It helps us offer a convenient option for local residents to check out the latest devices and speak with our tech experts about their wireless needs.”

The mobile store is completely self-sufficient, therefore only requiring a small section of a parking lot or land to operate. It was built with modern features and has a 120 square-foot showroom where customers can have hands-on access to the latest devices, smart home solutions and consumer electronics for every budget.

UScellular invested $500,000 in the mobile store which will be in this location until the end of March 2023. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, contact the store at 660-553-2202.

UScellular is always actively looking for empowered professionals with sales experience, excellent communications skills and an enthusiastic commitment to customers. Store leadership and full and part-time retail wireless consultant sales positions are available in a high-energy, professional environment, and interested applicants can apply online at uscellular.jobs. These positions offer a competitive starting wage and benefits that include medical and dental insurance, a 401K and tuition reimbursement, along with incentives such as performance-based bonuses and discounted wireless service.

About U.S. Cellular

UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has pledged to provide hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youth connect to reliable internet. Additionally, UScellular has price protected all of its plans, promising not to increase prices through at least the end of 2024. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com.

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For more information, contact: 

Kelly Harris 

(314)898-8116 

kelly@hausergrouppr.com 

(more…)

With the start of Spring right around the corner, Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) in partnership with AARP in St. Louis are inviting older residents who want to get out and explore St. Louis to register for the award-winning CMT Ten Toe Express® program. Featuring weekly guided tours across each 12-week session that mix walking and transit use, the program allows participants to explore multiple cultural destinations across the region in a group setting. Registration for the spring session – which runs April 6 through June 30 – is now underway and can be completed online at www.cmt-stl.org or in-person at one of the six registration events taking place in Shrewsbury and Belleville throughout March. There is a registration fee of $10 that is required to cover a portion of the program costs.

Over the years, the Ten Toe Express® program has helped thousands of older adults and other individuals lead healthier lives by linking activity, sociability and exercise with the use of MetroLink and MetroBus. Each weekly Ten Toe Express® walking tour is led by a trained, volunteer walk leader and ranges in length from 0.3 to 5 miles, depending on the group and destination. Each tour starts from one of six area transit centers: Brentwood I-64, Forest Park-DeBaliviere, Belleville, Rock Road, North Hanley or Shrewsbury-Lansdowne 44. Participants then take the MetroLink or MetroBus to Forest Park, downtown St. Louis, the Delmar Loop, downtown Belleville and other areas (depending on the week), where they explore local attractions and stop for lunch or a snack before heading back. Special walks are scheduled periodically throughout the season. Walking maps with instructions on how to utilize transit to get to many of the region’s cultural and entertainment hot spots are available online to assist those who want to explore areas independently.

First-time registrants receive a walking kit containing a pedometer, maps, transit tickets, and a safety tips flyer in a Ten Toe tote bag. Any individual who opts into receiving information on AARP also receive a special gift, while supplies last. Registration can be completed at www.cmt-stl.org or at the following registration events:

• March 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shrewsbury Community Center

(5200 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury MO 63119)

• March 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Belleville Transit Center

(800 Scheel Street, Belleville, IL 62221)

• March 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shrewsbury Community Center

(5200 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury MO 63119)

• March 8 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Belleville Transit Center

(800 Scheel Street, Belleville, IL 62221)

• March 10 from 10 a.m. to noon at the St. Clair County Office on Aging
  (201 North Church Street, Belleville, IL 62220)
• March 24 from 10 a.m. to noon at the St. Clair County Office on Aging
  (201 North Church Street, Belleville, IL 62220

“The Ten Toe Express program has been a wonderful resource for older adults who want to socialize, get moving and become familiar with our region’s transit system,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “Since the program’s inception in 2007, more than 8,000 older adults have participated, with hundreds returning each year. Many of these individuals have built lasting friendships, while learning how to utilize transit to get to several attractions and destinations across the region – a benefit to those who want to remain independent and mobile as they age.”

To learn more about the Ten Toe Express® program, visit www.cmt-stl.org or call 314-231-7272.

About Citizens for Modern Transit

Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) is the region’s transit advocacy organization. It was established in 1985 to help bring light rail to St. Louis and works to develop, support and enhance programming and initiatives to ensure safe, convenient and affordable access to the region’s integrated public transportation system. CMT champions, challenges, encourages and advocates for public transit in an effort to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life in the St. Louis region.

About AARP in St. Louis

AARP in St. Louis is the local connection for AARP – the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Locally this is done through virtual & in-person engagement opportunities, legislative efforts on the local, state and federal level, educational resources, and volunteer opportunities.  Advocating for and supporting efforts that contribute to creating a lifelong community is at the core of what we do in the St. Louis region.  www.aarp.org/stlouis

# # #

For more information, contact: 

Kelly Harris 

(314)898-8116 

kelly@hausergrouppr.com 

(more…)

To help provide greater educational opportunities for YWCA Minneapolis employees and their family members, health and wellness members, program participants and Early Childhood Education parents, Western Governors University (WGU) today announced it has entered into a joint partnership with the organization. Together, YWCA Minneapolis and WGU will seek to provide a streamlined approach and expand access to higher education for those who wish to pursue their bachelor’s or master’s degrees through the fully online, nonprofit university.

“We’re proud to be partnering with YWCA Minneapolis to help make affordable, high-quality college education more accessible to its association members and employees,” said Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University. “YWCA Minneapolis has been building stronger and more open-minded communities for over 130 years. From health access to racial justice, the leaders of YWCA Minneapolis have long been at the forefront of change, and this partnership will further support their mission.”

YWCA Minneapolis is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1891 as a member of YWCA USA, the oldest and largest multicultural organization in the world. The organization works to promote education, health and wellness through high-quality, equity-centered programs, with a mission to eliminate racism, empower women and foster peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. YWCA Minneapolis serves more than 30,000 people each year — ranging from families seeking group fitness classes to young girls interested in pursuing the fields of science, technology, engineering or math (STEM).

WGU offers YWCA Minneapolis employees and their family members, Early Childhood Education parents, program participants and Health and Wellness members more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology and health professions, including nursing. The university pioneered online, competency-based education, a model that allows individuals to further their education and careers on their own timeline, no matter where they live. This approach allows students to take advantage of prior learning and work-based experience to move through courses at their own pace. Students study, complete coursework and take tests on schedules that fit their lives, advancing as soon as they demonstrate they have mastered the subject matter. All students at WGU who enroll will be paired with a program mentor who has expertise in their chosen degree program and supports students in learning and navigating their educational journeys from enrollment through graduation.

“YWCA Minneapolis is excited to partner with Western Governors University to remove barriers to education and help our employees, their families, our program participants and members gain access to high quality, affordable education,” said Shelley Carthen Watson, President and CEO of YWCA Minneapolis.

Under the terms of the agreement between YWCA Minneapolis and WGU, students who enroll in WGU will also be eligible to take advantage of scholarships to make tuition even more affordable. The Collaborative Agreement Scholarship is valued at up to $2,500 and designed for members and employees of WGU’s partner collaboratives that are seeking to advance their education. The scholarships will be disbursed in increments of $625 per six-month term and can be renewed for up to four terms based on satisfactory academic performance.

For more information on the partnership between WGU and YWCA Minneapolis, visit wgu.edu or ywcampls.org.

About WGU
Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable higher education, online, nonprofit WGU now serves more than 140,000 students nationwide and has more than 300,000 graduates in all 50 states. Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in postsecondary education. In just 25 years, the university has become a leading influence in changing the lives of individuals and families, and preparing the workforce needed in today’s rapidly evolving economy. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and has been featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at www.wgu.edu.

About YWCA Minneapolis
YWCA Minneapolis is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women and girls. For more than 130 years, we have worked to create opportunities to overcome social injustice, particularly in matters of race and gender. Annually, YWCA Minneapolis serves more than 30,000 people in our community through high-quality programs and advocacy focused on racial justice, early learning, youth development and wellness. To learn more, visit ywcampls.org or join the conversation at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

# # #

For more information, contact: 

Merisa Ashbaugh 

314-436-9090 

merisa@hausergrouppr.com

(more…)

Western Governors University (WGU) and North Hennepin Community College (NHCC) today announced they have formed a new agreement that will provide NHCC graduates with an affordable pathway to earning their bachelor’s or master’s degree through WGU. Under the terms of the agreement – which was officially signed by the two institutions on Feb. 14 at NHCC’s campus – students graduating with their associate degrees from NHCC will be able to seamlessly transfer their credits to WGU. The agreement expands higher education opportunities for NHCC graduates with the goal of building a future-ready workforce in Minnesota.

“We are excited to add Western Governors University to the growing list of university partnerships that we have for students,” said Dr. Rolando García, President of North Hennepin Community College. “We know many students will enjoy WGU’s online, competency-based education model and look forward to continued connections with the staff, faculty, and leadership at WGU.”

NHCC is one of the largest and most diverse community colleges in Minnesota with 425 employees and 7,563 students currently enrolled. The college is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system – the fifth largest system in the U.S. – and is a regionally acclaimed and nationally recognized academic institution known for its diversity and inclusiveness. As a learner-centered institution that believes in engaging students and changing lives, NHCC’s high-quality faculty and staff deliver more than 70 distinctive and innovative degree and certificate programs designed to meet regional workforce needs. Over the last five years, nearly 100 NHCC graduates transferred to WGU – 69% of whom transferred in with an average of 63.5 credits – with a first-term retention rate of 94%.

NHCC students transitioning to WGU will be able to take advantage of the university’s online competency-based education model, which will allow them to use prior education and work-based experience to move through courses at their own pace and graduate quicker. Students study, complete coursework and take tests on schedules that fit their lives, advancing as soon as they demonstrate they have mastered the subject matter. Like all students at WGU, NHCC graduates who enroll will be paired with a program mentor who has expertise in their chosen degree program and supports students in learning and navigating their educational journeys from enrollment through graduation.

WGU offers students graduating with their associate degrees from NHCC with affordable access to more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology and health professions, including nursing. NHCC graduates who enroll in any of WGU’s programs will also be able to apply for the Community College Partner Scholarship, which is valued at up to $2,500 each and will be applied to WGU’s already-low, flat-rate tuition of about $3,800 per six-month term.

“We are thrilled to partner with North Hennepin Community College and continue to grow the number of degreed individuals in the Twin Cities region,” said Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University. “WGU values the important role community colleges play in upskilling the workforce and is pleased to offer an affordable and flexible pathway for thousands of Minnesotans who need postsecondary education and training to advance their careers and, in turn, their lives. NHCC is our fifth largest two-year transfer institution in the state to-date, and this agreement will further support our collaborative efforts.”

For more information on the partnership between WGU and NHCC, visit wgu.edu or nhcc.edu.

About North Hennepin Community College
Established in 1966, North Hennepin Community College is a local, global-minded community of lifelong learners located in the northwest metropolitan area of the Twin Cities. NHCC is a proud recipient of the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award, serves 9,000 students, and offers more than 70 academic programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and bachelor’s degrees through university partnerships. A member of Minnesota State, and equal opportunity educator and employer, NHCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. To receive this information in an alternative format, call 763-493-0555 (voice) or via the Minnesota Relay at 1-800-627-3529.

About WGU
Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable higher education, online, nonprofit WGU now serves more than 140,000 students nationwide and has more than 300,000 graduates in all 50 states. Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in postsecondary education. In just 25 years, the university has become a leading influence in changing the lives of individuals and families, and preparing the workforce needed in today’s rapidly evolving economy. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and has been featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at wgu.edu.

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For more information, contact: 

Merisa Ashbaugh 

314-436-9090 

merisa@hausergrouppr.com

(more…)

Western Governors University (WGU) and Southeastern Community College (SCC) today announced a new articulation agreement that will provide SCC graduates an affordable pathway to earning their bachelor’s degree through WGU. Under the terms of the agreement, students graduating with their SCC associate degree will be able to seamlessly transfer their credits to WGU. The agreement expands higher education opportunities for SCC graduates in the hopes of building a future-ready workforce in Iowa.

“This is an excellent option for residents from across the region who pursue their degree online after SCC,” said Dr. Derreck Calkins, Director of Assessment Curriculum, and Learning Resources at Southeastern Community College. “Not all online programs are equal. WGU has a history of providing a quality education across a wide variety of programs.”

SCC graduates who enroll in any of WGU’s programs will be able to apply for the Community College Partner Scholarship, which is valued at up to $2,500 each and will be applied to WGU’s already-low, flat-rate tuition of about $3,800 per six-month term.

Southeastern Community College students transitioning to WGU will be also able to take advantage of the university’s online-competency-based education model, which will allow them to use prior education and work-based experience to move through courses at their own pace and graduate quicker. Students study, complete coursework and take tests on schedules that fit their lives, advancing as soon as they demonstrate they have mastered the subject matter. Like all students at WGU, Southeastern Community College graduates who enroll will also be paired with a program mentor who has expertise in their chosen degree program and supports students in learning and navigating their educational journeys from enrollment through graduation.

“We are thrilled to provide continuing education options to graduating students and staff of Southeastern Community College,” said Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University. “WGU values the important role community colleges play in upskilling the workforce and is pleased to offer an affordable and flexible pathway for thousands of Iowans who need postsecondary education and training to advance their careers and, in turn, improve their lives.”

Southeastern Community College has 250 employees and serves nearly 2,500 students across a four-county service area in Southeast Iowa, with its central campus located in West Burlington and extended campus locations in Keokuk, Burlington, Mount Pleasant and Fort Madison. WGU, which is fully online and nonprofit, offers students graduating from Southeastern Community College with affordable access to more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology and health professions, including nursing.

For more information on the partnership between WGU and Southeastern Community College, visit wgu.edu/iacc.

About WGU

Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable higher education, online, nonprofit WGU now serves more than 140,000 students nationwide and has more than 300,000 graduates in all 50 states. Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in postsecondary education. In just 25 years, the university has become a leading influence in changing the lives of individuals and families, and preparing the workforce needed in today’s rapidly evolving economy. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and has been featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at wgu.edu.

# # #

For more information, contact: 

Merisa Ashbaugh 

314-436-9090 

merisa@hausergrouppr.com

(more…)