CSCU Received Grant to Support Adult Learners

The Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) today announced the approval of a $291,300 Lumina Foundation grant to fund an adult learner policy audit and build infrastructure to address costs beyond tuition for adult students.

“Adult learners often encounter significant barriers as they pursue a college education,” said CSCU President Mark Ojakian. “Issues from childcare, to transportation, to food insecurity often make it difficult to complete a degree. We need to do everything in our power to ensure adult learners across the CSCU system have access to the supports necessary to succeed. This funding will help do just that, and I thank the Lumina Foundation for a worthy investment.”

Specifically, the funding will used to take the following actions:

• Identify systemic financial policy barriers.
• Create a heat map of community partners that provide wraparound services.
• Produce a culminating reporter including audit and survey findings and specific policy recommendations.
• Release college action plans.

“This investment comes at a critical moment for CSCU as they build on their commitment to supporting adult learners and increasing attainment,” said Wayne Taliaferro, Strategy Officer for Finance and Federal Policy at the Foundation. “Some of the most significant affordability barriers are those that exist outside of tuition. This effort will be another step towards a more supportive system for adult learners, and a strategic push forward in their commitment to equity.” 

The grant runs through December 31, 2020.

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Lumina Foundation is an independent, private foundation in Indianapolis that is committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all. Lumina envisions a system that is easy to navigate, delivers fair results, and meets the nation’s need for talent through a broad range of credentials.