College Now E-News - November 2023

November 2023 Newsletter

We have a new strategic plan!

Our Board of Directors recently voted to adopt the organization’s new strategic plan that will guide the work we do for the next 5 years. Having the new, focused plan will help 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 our region.

Our strategic pillars:

Champion the value of postsecondary education for all
Increase postsecondary educational attainment
Expand and enhance the impact of College Now’s role as a thought leader
Advance College Now’s organizational effectiveness

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College Now in the Community

College Now Adult Programs Open New Office in Cleveland Food Bank

On November 1, College Now's Adult Programs celebrated the grand opening of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank Community Resource Center, with our CEO Lee Friedman participating in the ribbon cutting!

We're proud to open a new office space in the Community Resource Center, with a team dedicated to helping adults navigate their journey to postsecondary education! This innovative center offers a fresh approach to helping those in need, as not having completed education (both postsecondary and high school) is just one root cause of food insecurity. Members of our adult programs team work at College Now’s Food Bank location Tuesday – Friday and two Saturdays each month.

Insights from the City Club of Cleveland's Youth Forum on The New College Process

On November 14, the City Club of Cleveland hosted its second Youth Forum of the school year, “The 'New' College Process.” The discussion delved into how academic tracking and the ending of Affirmative Action have reshaped the college admissions landscape.

Among the panelists was Kate Schwab, senior director of advising programs and services at College Now, who provided valuable insights into the impact on both students and educators. Together, they explored the evolving dynamics of college admissions, offering a glimpse into what the future holds for prospective college applicants.

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Coming in October 2024: Bags & Bourbon

College Now's biennial fundraising event,

Bags & Bourbon, will be held on October 24, 2024 at Playhouse Square. This special evening will feature cocktails, designer handbag shopping, bourbon tastings and more. All funds raised at Bags & Bourbon go toward supporting our Mentoring Program and its mission to assist students on their postsecondary journeys.

Stay tuned for additional updates as the event date approaches!

First-Generation College Students Continue to Find Success

College Now Recognizes First- Generation College Student Celebration Week

During First-Generation College Celebration Week earlier this month, we celebrated the achievements and resilience of our outstanding first-gen students and employees, digitally highlighting their remarkable journeys.

From TikToks showcasing our community's spirit to our inspiring First-Gen Student Panel, College Now proudly honored the trailblazers among both students and staff, recognizing their stories of perseverance and success that inspire us all.

College Now Lends Guidance to Signal Cleveland's Guide to First-Gen Success

Embarking on higher education can be daunting, especially for first-generation college students facing unique challenges. Signal Cleveland commemorated First-Generation College Celebration Week with a comprehensive guide for prospective first-gen students, featuring insights from experts like Nancy Dunn, senior manager of advising programs and services at College Now!

Get Ready for the Better FAFSA!

Opening Dec. 31

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is scheduled to open on Dec. 31 with significant changes! Complete the FAFSA to access grants, work-study funds and loans for your college or career school journey. Spread the word and review these details to learn more about the smoother application process.

Be sure to register for our Dec. 2 FSA ID Creation Workshop to prepare to secure your access to federal financial aid with confidence and ease! #FAFSAFundMyFuture

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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 general application deadline is March 15, 2024.

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2024-2025 Phi Beta Kappa Scholarship

The Phi Beta Kappa Scholarship is for students who are in the top 10% of their high school graduating class, have high test scores and plan to pursue a liberal arts or humanities major. Student should have a love of learning and be active in the school and community.

This $1,000 scholarship is renewable. Students must currently attend a high school served by College Now in Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina and Summit counties.

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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.

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Donate to College Now

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