The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) has released a report on Navigate Reconnect, the state’s primary program dedicated to guiding adults over 25 through college enrollment. The findings reveal that participants, known as “Reconnectors,” achieved higher educational persistence and completion rates when assisted by Navigate Reconnect coaches, also called “Navigators,” compared to those who did not utilize the program.
Navigate Reconnect provides free services such as academic counseling, financial aid guidance, and access to local resources including childcare and transportation. Brett Gipson, Chief College Access Officer at THEC, emphasized the program’s success, noting the significant 11-percentage point advantage for participants in terms of staying in school or completing degrees.
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A collaboration between THEC, Tennessee’s Department of Finance and Administration’s Office of Evidence and Impact, and the Boyd Center for Business & Economic Research at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, the study investigated the effects of Navigate Reconnect on adult education outcomes. Key findings include:
– **Demographics**: The majority of Reconnectors were female, averaging 33 years of age, and more often from Non-White, lower-income households. Many were first-generation college students.
– **Enrollment Outcomes**: 33% to 43% of Reconnectors enrolled in college within a year of engaging with a Navigator. Enrollment saw a notable rise in 2020, with 87% opting for community colleges.
– **Academic Success**: Reconnectors showed higher persistence and completion rates compared to other nontraditional students, with a 55% persistence rate in community colleges, surpassing the 44% rate of their peers.
– **Employment and Income**: 78% of Reconnectors were employed at enrollment, a higher rate than other adult learners.
– **Demographic Impact**: The program effectively supported diverse groups across different demographics, reinforcing its inclusive approach.
Dr. Celeste Carruthers from the Boyd Center highlighted the importance of the program for adults balancing education with life responsibilities. Tennessee pioneered these statewide services to aid adult learners, with testimonials from THEC officials illustrating the program’s personal impact on participants’ educational journeys.
THEC remains committed to broadening educational opportunities for adult learners, continually developing programs tailored to nontraditional students’ needs. Additional information about Navigate Reconnect can be found on their [website](https://tnreconnect.gov).
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Nashville State Launches Music Industry Workshop
Nashville State Community College, in partnership with the TBR Center for Workforce Development and Nashville Songwriters Association International, is launching a six-week music industry workshop starting February 11, 2025. Esteemed industry professionals like Tom Douglas and Mike Molinar will lead the sessions, aimed at equipping aspiring songwriters with essential industry skills. The program emphasizes career opportunities in Tennessee’s music sector, with sessions held on Tuesday evenings both on-campus and online. Registration costs $145 for NSAI members and $245 for non-members. More details can be found on the Registration Information page.