Stark State College joins roster of schools in Ohio Reach program for foster connected students
Stark State College has joined the Ohio Reach program, which provides guidance and support to students who are connected to the foster care system and otherwise do not have familial support on their education journey.
Twenty-eight Ohio colleges, universities, and technical centers, including Stark State College, have been chosen to receive the a new Ohio Reach postsecondary designation because of their efforts to support students who are connected to the foster care system.
The Ohio Reach program was designed as a network of students, advocates, and professionals across the state who are working to support former foster youth as they pursue higher education. The program is administered through the Ohio Children’s Alliance, it provides resources to child welfare agencies, higher education institutions, and alumni of foster care who are enrolled in higher education, with the goal of helping those students along in their academic success.
Involved students will be assigned a designated campus liaison at Stark State College: Drew Felber, director of admissions and SSC Akron. Felber will coordinate resources in mentorship, community building, housing, food, and more. Assisting Felberg will be Campus Champions in student support services, Elizabeth Inkinen-Schell, student support counselor and Lisa Gilliland, director of disability support services and military services; financial aid, Matt Kirksey, director of financial aid and scholarships; and advising, Brian Moore, associate professor, and Melanie Carr, manager of advising and Gateway Student Services.
In an article posted on Stark State College’s website, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine was quoted about the program, saying, “If they don’t have a trusted adult to help guide them, some foster-connected youth may be especially attracted to schools with the Ohio Reach postsecondary designation knowing that they’ll receive support, if needed. This extra support and guidance could make a meaningful difference and help a student continue along a successful path to live their version of the American dream.”
Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner was also quoted as saying, “This designation recognizes those colleges, universities, and technical centers that go above and beyond to support those students with foster care connections.”
More information about Stark State’s Ohio Reach program can be gained by calling 330-494-6170 ext. 4228, or by email at admissions@starkstate.edu.
More information about Stark State College in general can be found on the school’s website.