College success coalition forming in Grant County

A college success coalition is forming in Grant County to encourage the attendance and completion of college by Hoosiers.

The Grant County College Success Coalition, which is supported by the education communication network Learn More Indiana, is looking to increase the percentage of Hoosiers who attend and complete college through the help of schools, non-profit agencies, community service groups and businesses, Project Leadership Director Tammy Pearson said.

Pearson is also one of the steering community members for the coalition. The first information meeting is set for 6 p.m. Jan. 19 in the Mississinewa High School library, 205 E. N. “H” St., Gas City.

“The state very much wants to support a statewide network of organizations that have a common goal,” she said.

While the common goal is college success, which can mean a four- or two-year degree or an equivalent certificate, Pearson said there are many ways it can be encouraged from the local community.

For example, Pearson said a scout troop can drive the children through a college campus on their way to a weekend activity to make the children more aware of their options. She also said the mentor program supported by Project Leadership is another example of an activity.

Pearson said when an organization commits to be a member of the coalition, it is encouraged to sponsor at least one activity throughout the year to encourage college attendance and completion.   

“I hope that we can make an impact in our community,” Sonia Strevy, Indiana Wesleyan University assistant professor of nursing and member of the coalition’s steering community, said.

The main impact she said they hope they can make is on the quality of life in the area.

Strevy said her interest in being a member of the coalition came from her connection with local high school students, particularly those who come from a diverse background and are looking to be first-generation college students.  

Mississinewa High School counselor Debbie Dailey said she also wanted to be a member of the steering community because of her direct link with students. She said her goals as a counselor align with the goals of the coalition — to bring more college awareness to the area. 

Pearson said while there will be people directly involved with education participating in the coalition, she is also expecting people from other areas to join and give their ideas and opinions.

“That’s what I’m excited with the coalition, hearing all the voices,” she said.

Those interested can visit www.grantcountycsc.org to fill out a membership application and view local education data.