COLLEGE SUCCESS MATTERS

A significant number of Philadelphians do not have a degree from a postsecondary institution. Only 27.4% of the city’s population have received a 4-yr degree and even less have obtained an associate’s degree (5.7%). Compare this to the national averages of 30.6% and 8.2% and it becomes clear Philadelphia is behind.

Yet, the disparity is more pronounced in high risk populations. The National Center for Academic Statistics found only 14% of low socioeconomic status high school graduates receive a bachelor’s or higher degree within eight years compared to 29% of middle-income students. With over half of jobs now requiring a postsecondary degree or credential, college completion has never been more important (Center on Education and the Workforce 2013).

However, research has shown there are strategies that can be built into the higher education experience to combat inequitable college retention. You're invited to our special event launching a new network of institutions of higher education and college success stakeholders. We will engage in strategic conversations to collectively increase the degree attainment for first-generation and low-income students in the Philadelphia region.

Special Guest: Dr. Tia Brown McNair Vice President , Office of Diversity, Equity, and Student Success, AAC&U