‘Press Releases’ Category
5/1/2023 – WGU Missouri Launches Teacher Appreciation Scholarships in Honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week
Monday, May 1st, 20235/1/2023 – WGU Missouri Launches Scholarship for Nurses in Honor of National Nurses Week
Monday, May 1st, 20233/14/2023 – Partners Announce Winner of “College Transit Challenge”
Tuesday, March 14th, 2023
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 recently held a weeklong “College Transit Challenge” initiative with partnering institutions St. Louis Community College, Saint Louis University, Southwestern Illinois College, University of Missouri–St. Louis and Washington University in St. Louis. From Friday, March 3, to Friday, March 10, nearly 300 individuals affiliated with these respective schools used their Metro U-Pass to take transit as often as they could. A total of 480 transit trips were tracked via mobile texting, and the school with the most participation and the winner of bragging rights for the 2023 “College Transit Challenge” is Washington University in St. Louis.
“Congratulations to Wash U and all the colleges and universities that participated in this challenge – it was a fun,” stated Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “The leaderboard shifted throughout the week, with UMSL and Wash U battling for the top spot and STLCC, SLU and SWIC competing in a tight race for third.”
An opportunity for bonus points brought participants to Sugarfire Smoke House’s downtown location, just steps away from the Convention Center MetroLink Station. UMSL students, faculty and staff took the lion’s share of the bonus points for their school, and UMSL’s Environmental Adventure Organization student group came away with the $250 prize for bringing the most attendees. Throughout the weeklong challenge, participants were entered to win a selection of prizes including St. Louis Symphony and St. Louis Cardinals tickets.
“The challenge succeeded at what we set out to do – get student, faculty and staff to utilize the region’s safe, integrated public transit system, along with their Metro U-passes to get to and from campus, work, doctor appointments, grocery stores, area attractions, nightlife or wherever else they needed or wanted to go,” Cella added.
To learn more about the College Transit Challenge or the Metro U-Pass Program, visit 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
3/14/2023 – Citizens For Modern Transit Elects Howard to its Board of Directors
Tuesday, March 14th, 2023
Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) has elected Catina Howard, vice-president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 788 (ATU 788), to its Board of Directors. She will serve a two-year term.
Howard has more than two decades of transit industry experience. As Vice President of ATU Local 788, she represents MetroBus operators, Metro Transit Call-A-Ride, clerical, maintenance, mechanic and light rail bargaining unit employees, as well as 600 school bus operators. Prior to her current role, she served as a Metro Transit operator for 10 years.
“We are ecstatic to welcome Catina Howard to our Board of Directors,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “Her background and expertise in the transit arena will greatly support the organization in its ongoing efforts to promote safe, convenient and cost effect transit access regions wide.”
To learn more about CMT visit www.cmt-stl.org, call (314) 231-7272, find the organization on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @cmt_stl.
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. To learn more, visit www.cmt-stl.org.
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For more information, contact:
Kelly Harris
(314)898-8116
3/13/2023 – UScellular Announces Three Winners of 6th Annual Black History Month Art Contest
Monday, March 13th, 2023
Today, UScellular announced the three winners of its 6th annual Black History Month Art Contest with Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield at a celebration at the club.
Public voting for the finalists’ art was available online, and the winning artists were awarded gift cards in the following amounts:
- Ayonna Cheek received $250 for 1st Place for the portrayal of Neil deGrasse Tyson
- Abby Henderson received $150 for 2nd Place for the portrayal of Mae Jemison
- Mariah E. received $100 for 3rd Place for the portrayal of George Washington Carver
In recognition of influential Black STEM icons, Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield members were encouraged to create original pieces of artwork of important historical figures, world leaders, scientists and educators who have made vital contributions to the world of STEM.
Ten finalists were chosen by representatives from the Boys & Girls Clubs based on creativity, quality, interpretation, clarity of theme and overall impression and featured Marie M. Daly, Neil deGrasse Tyson and Mae Jemison, among others. Public voting for the finalists was made available online throughout the month of February. In addition, the finalists’ artwork was digitally displayed at the UScellular store at 2623 N. Kansas Expressway in Springfield.
“Working with Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield to celebrate Black History Month and to highlight the achievements of Black STEM icons such as Mae Jemison and George Washington Carver has been extremely gratifying,” said Mark Bennett, store manager for UScellular in Springfield. “The creativity that Club members displayed in their artwork was inspiring and we congratulate our participants and winners in this year’s contest.”
Since 2009, the company has donated more than $22.6 million along with countless experiences and technology items to nonprofit organizations across the country. Additionally, through its After School Access Project, UScellular has pledged up to $13 million in hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youth connect to reliable internet in its markets. For more information about UScellular’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, please go to https://newsroom.uscellular.com/community/.
No Purchase Necessary. Entrants who are minors must have parental consent to participate in the Contest. Official Contest Rules, including full entry details and Finalist and Winner selection criteria/voting are available by email request to USCDLMediaRelations@uscellular.com.
About UScellular
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.
About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Club offers daily access to a broad range of programs in six core program areas: The Arts; Education; Workforce Readiness; Character & Leadership; Health & Wellness; and Sports & Recreation, giving the youth of our community the proper tools they need to become successful students and citizens is an important part of our mission. Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield provides program opportunities to over 13,000 local youth each year. Parents interested in having their children join the Club and learn more about its youth programs can contact the organization at 417.862.9249 or visit www.bgclubspringfield.org.
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For more information, contact:
Kelly Harris
(314)898-8116
3/10/2023 – Western Governors University and White Earth Tribal & Community College Announce Partnership
Friday, March 10th, 2023Nonprofit, 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
3/7/2023 – St. Clair County Transit District Awards Construction Contract for Phase III of the Old Collinsville Road Trail
Tuesday, March 7th, 2023The 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
3/7/2023 – Western Governors University and Digital Analytics Association Announce Partnership
Tuesday, March 7th, 2023Nonprofit, 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
3/6/2023 – WGU Missouri Launches “Fund My Classroom” Program for 2023; Encourages K-12 Teachers to Apply for Grant Funding by April 14
Monday, March 6th, 2023
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-8th 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
3/3/2023 – Partners Host Weeklong “College Transit Challenge” Reinforcing Benefits of Transit and Availability of Metro U-Pass Program
Friday, March 3rd, 2023To 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