February 2026 Newsletter

Where the Light Began: A 60-Year Journey 

It started with a simple belief: talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not. With that conviction, College Now's founders set out to expand access to higher education for students across Cleveland — lighting a path that continues to guide our work today. 

As we begin our countdown to College Now’s 60th anniversary in 2027, we're reflecting on where that spark began and the impact it has made along the way. Watch our teaser video and join us in celebrating the journey! 

Alumni Spotlight

Derrick Johnson: The Ripple Effect of Mentorship

Derrick Johnson’s journey started with a simple but powerful connection — his mom had once been supported by College Now, and she knew exactly where he should turn. 

With guidance from advisors and the support of a mentor who walked beside him through college, Derrick uncovered scholarships he didn’t know existed, earned his degree from Tufts University and followed his passion all the way to Major League Baseball. 

Today, he’s giving back as a member of the College Now Alumni Council — proof that when someone believes in your future, the impact can last a lifetime. 

Read Derrick’s full story and see how support can change everything! 

College Now Programs

Scholarship Opportunities Still Open — Don't Miss Out!

College Now’s scholarship season is in full swing, and there’s still time to apply. With opportunities available for high school seniors, current college students and adult learners returning to the classroom, these awards are designed to remove financial barriers and open doors to what’s next. 

Available applications include the College Now Traditional Scholarship, The Cleveland Foundation Scholarships, the Cleveland Browns Foundation Marion Motley Scholarship, Adult Learner Scholarships and more. Each opportunity represents an investment in local students and in the future of our community. 

Help spread the word to students, families and colleagues - and explore the full list of scholarships today at cngc.org/scholarships.

College How? Webinar: Making Sense of Your Financial Aid

Join us for the next College How? webinar: Making Sense of Your Financial Aid on Wednesday, March 11 at 7 p.m., and learn how to decode award letters, understand your options and make smart choices that work for you and your family. We'll break it all down in a clear, stress-free way so you can feel prepared and informed about paying for college. 

Missed our last webinar? Catch up on our recent session all about planning for the summer. We covered internships, volunteer opportunities, jobs, enrichment programs and other ways students can use the summer months to build skills, explore interests and strengthen their college applications. 

Get Help Completing the FAFSA — Join Us at an Upcoming Event

Financial aid can make all the difference when it comes to college affordability — and College Now is here to help. Attend one of our upcoming FAFSA completion events to receive free, one-on-one assistance from our advisors to ensure forms are submitted accurately and on time. 

Upcoming events include: 

• Akron Summit Library-Main on Feb. 25 at 5:30 p.m.

• Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C)  Metro on Feb. 28 at 10 a.m. (offered alongside an EITC Tax Event — complete both the FAFSA and your taxes in one visit) 

• Willowick Public Library on March 4 at 6 p.m.

Whether applying for the first time or finishing up, these events provide the guidance needed to move forward with confidence. Registration details and additional information are available at cngc.org/events. 

Two LAUNCH Sessions Remaining for Adults

There’s still time to join College Now’s LAUNCH workshop series — with just two sessions remaining on Feb. 25 and March 4.

LAUNCH is a free in-person program designed for adults ages 19 and older who are ready to take the next step toward college, training or a new career but need help getting started. Participants receive one-on-one guidance from a College Now advisor, practical support navigating financial aid and enrollment and special incentives including application fee waivers. 

The final sessions take place Wednesdays from 5:30–7 p.m. at College Now’s Resource Center in downtown Cleveland. Don’t miss this opportunity to turn goals into a clear, actionable plan. 

Saint Luke's Foundation Grants $100,000 
to Boost College Access

We're thrilled to announce a generous $100,000 grant from the Saint Luke's Foundation to support expanding higher education access in Cleveland's Buckeye-Shaker, Woodhill and Mt. Pleasant neighborhoods! This funding will directly support higher education return on investment workshops, student loan counseling, college and career exposure trips and deepened collaboration with Say Yes Family Support Specialists in neighborhood schools. 

Thank you, Saint Luke’s Foundation, for investing in our mission and our community! 



A New Way to Explore: College Now's Chatbot

Have a question about college, careers or your next step? Ask away! Our chatbot is here to provide quick, reliable answers whenever they’re needed. Whether exploring career pathways, learning about education and training options, or finding the right College Now program or scholarship, support is available in just a few clicks.



The chatbot lives right on the College Now homepage and is always within reach. Simply click the blue chat icon in the lower right corner to start the conversation and begin exploring what’s possible.

Celebrating Black History in Education

Throughout February, College Now is celebrating the profound impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). For more than 180 years, these institutions have been more than just schools — they have provided Black students with nurturing environments to explore identity, culture and community while pursuing academic excellence. 

HBCUs have shaped generations of leaders across industries, from education and medicine to business and public service. Their legacy is rooted in resilience, opportunity and a steadfast commitment to expanding access to higher education. 

Follow College Now on social media all month as we explore the rich history of HBCUs, spotlight those located in Ohio and celebrate the lasting impact of these remarkable institutions. Later this month, members of our staff will also share their personal HBCU experiences and reflections — offering a firsthand look at the community, culture and opportunity that continue to shape students and alumni alike.