Cleveland State Community College and Tennessee College of Applied Technology Athens were recently awarded a $25,000 TN Accelerate grant from the Tennessee Board of Regents. The colleges were one of only three college partnerships in the state to receive the grant.
TN Accelerate is an innovative approach to postsecondary education. According to the grant application, “As Tennessee continues to lead in workforce development and higher education innovation, TN Accelerate will serve as a national model for how institutions can collaboratively address enrollment challenges, accelerate credential completion and prepare students for high-demand careers.”
Dr.
Andy White, Cleveland State president, said, "To effectively support the education and workforce development needs of a large, rural service area, we have to forge strong partnerships and be highly innovative. This grant incentives us to do just that. Students, area employers and our colleges will all benefit."
"The colleges are expanding their partnership to better serve the education and workforce development needs of the region," official said. "The grant will provide funds to improve and expand initiatives, conduct a comprehensive review of curriculum pathways and embrace the Higher Education Center Model."
Susan Hatto, TCAT Athens president, said, “TCAT Athens is proud to partner with Cleveland State Community College to create meaningful pathways that support both our students and the broader community. The grant funding enhances our collaboration by providing critical resources that will expand educational opportunities and strengthen workforce development.”
The two colleges already partner on articulation agreements, apprenticeships and the LPN to RN bridge program in nursing. By working together to increase student achievement, Cleveland State and TCAT Athens plan to transform the delivery of programs and serve as a model for other institutions throughout the state, officials said.