December 2023 Newsletter

As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the journey we've shared with our dedicated students, supportive partners and passionate team. This holiday season, we celebrate the spirit of community and the power of education. 


Our downtown office, Cleveland and Akron resource centers and Greater Cleveland Food Bank office will be closed on the following days this season:


  • Monday, December 25  
  • Tuesday, December 26 
  • Monday, January 1 
  • Tuesday, January 2 


We look forward to continuing our work with high school students and adult learners in the new year! In the meantime, fill out our form and schedule an appointment to meet with our team to get you on track to meet your education and career goals.


Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Michele Scott Taylor Promoted to

President of College Now Greater Cleveland

College Now proudly announces the promotion of Dr. Michele Scott Taylor to the newly created position of president of the organization. Dr. Scott Taylor previously served as chief programs officer for the last 13 years, providing strategic leadership to the team that guides middle and high school students in identifying their career goals, and attaining the postsecondary education they need to achieve their aspirations.


As president, Dr. Scott Taylor will oversee the implementation of College Now’s new strategic plan, helping to ensure that anyone in Northeast Ohio who wants a meaningful career can receive the education they need to achieve their goals – contributing to the economic vitality of the region. 


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FAFSA Opens December 31


The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is scheduled to open on Sunday, Dec. 31 with significant changes! High school students and their parents/guardians should complete the FAFSA to access grants, work-study funds and loans for their college or career journey. 


While the FAFSA isn't open just yet, you can create your FSA ID now. You must have an FSA ID to start the FAFSA when it opens Dec. 31. If you need assistance with setting up your ID, follow our step-by-step instructions.


Spread the word and review these details to learn more about the smoother application process – including webinars and in-person workshops

Professional Advisory Council Event Recap


College Now hosted its biannual Professional Advisory Council (PAC) meeting last month to discuss educational attainment in Northeast Ohio and its critical impact on our region's health. 


PAC members and creators of College Now’s Diversity in Finance Scholarship, Michael Novak of Wellspring Financial Advisors, David LaPuma of Ancora Holdings Group, Heather Welsh of Sequoia Financial Group and Tony Basalla of Cerity Partners, discussed how individuals, clients and firms can 'move the needle' within the education space. 


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Lee Friedman recognized as top 50 executive

Lee Friedman, College Now CEO, earned a prestigious recognition as one of the top 50 executives in Northeast Ohio. The Smart 50 Awards from Smart Business recognizes these executives’ abilities to effectively build successful organizations, highlighting exceptional leadership in diverse business facets. 

Scholarship Corner

Applications for Cleveland Foundation Scholarships Open Dec. 15


College Now manages more than 60 Cleveland Foundation scholarships. These scholarships vary in criteria and scope, and there is something for nearly everyone. By completing the general application, students can be considered for dozens of scholarships. Please note that while the general application covers many scholarships, others (such as corporate/group scholarships, external scholarships, and a small number of specialized scholarships) require a separate application.


The application opens Dec. 15 and the deadline to apply is March 15, 2024. 


Learn More

2024-2025 Adult Learner Scholarship


Are you an adult learner seeking financial assistance to pursue your postsecondary educational goals? The College Now Adult Learner Program Scholarship is open to individuals ages 19 and above who have taken a break of one year or more after high school and are now ready to embark on their academic journey. Whether you're aiming for your first bachelor's degree, an associate's degree, or a non-degree certificate or license in a vocational or technical program, we're here to support you.   


Don't miss out on this opportunity! Apply now through April 30, 2024. 




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Save the Date: Bags & Bourbon 2024

College Now's Bags & Bourbon fundraising event, h is set for October 24, 2024, at Playhouse Square. Join us for an evening showcasing cocktails, designer handbags, bourbon tastings and more. Your contributions will directly support our Mentoring Program, aiding students in their educational pursuits.


Keep an eye out for more event details as the date draws near!

College Now In the News

Signal Cleveland:

Inside Cleveland State's Instant Decision Day

Cleveland State University is bringing "Instant Decision Days" to Cleveland-area high schools, and Brandi DuVall, senior college access advisor at College Now, played a crucial role in orchestrating the recent event at Rhodes High School. In an effort to humanize the college admissions process, students received decisions on acceptance to Cleveland State within minutes of applying. This personalized approach aims to make higher education more accessible and less intimidating for local students, offering them guidance and instant clarity on their academic futures.


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Mentoring Program featured on WKYC's We the People


College Now's Mentoring Program was recently featured on WKYC's "We the People" after being awarded a $5,000 grant from TEGNA, the station's parent company.


As a longstanding partner of College Now, WKYC has played an integral role in our mentor recruitment efforts. We extend a heartfelt thanks to both TEGNA and WKYC for their support in furthering our mission


Watch Segment

Mentoring Coordinator Melinda Dang highlighted as a first-generation college grad


College Now’s Mentoring Program coordinator, Melinda Dang, was featured in Signal Cleveland's first-generation college student profiles! Melinda works to connect mentors with College Now and Say Yes Cleveland scholarship recipients – many of whom are first-generation college students – and she knows first-hand the kind of support they need. 


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Spread the word about AmeriCorps at College Now!

Do you know a recent college grad? Help us spread the word on the paid opportunity to become an AmeriCorps College and Career Guide for 2024. 

 

By sharing this opportunity with your network, you can be the catalyst for change in someone's life. Spread the word to friends, family and colleagues who are or may know someone who is passionate about service and has a desire to create positive change.


Learn More


Contact Us
Donate to College Now

Post Office Plaza

1500 West 3rd Street, Suite 125

Cleveland, OH 44113

216.241.5587

collegenowgc.org

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