Shepherd University partners with Jefferson County Schools for direct admission partnership
The partnership allows students who graduate from Jefferson High School and Washington High School with a grade point average to receive direct admission to the university.
Shepherd University and Jefferson County Schools have partnered to form a direct admission pipeline that guarantees university admission to high school students who graduate with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher. The university admittance will be automatic and offers a seamless transition from high school to college, removing barriers that might keep students from advancing.
According to an article on Shepherd University’s website, Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix, the university’s president, was quoted as saying of the partnership, “Shepherd University is proud to strengthen our long-standing partnership with Jefferson County Schools. This direct admission program aligns with our mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to students in our community. We look forward to welcoming more Jefferson County graduates to our university and supporting them in achieving their academic and career goals.”
Students graduating from Jefferson High School and Washington High School who have a qualifying GPA will not need to fill out an application for Shepherd University. The university and Jefferson County Schools have enjoyed a partnership for several years, and this new arm of the partnership will allow local high school graduates to continue their education in a place close to home and ensure they will be ready for their future careers.
On October 24, 2025, Shepherd University Provost Dr. Jack DeRochi and Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management Will Bell were present at an event with Washington High School Principal Donald Showen to celebrate the first students admitted to the university via this partnership: Austin Brown, Rebecca Cline, Peyton Cunningham, Sven Dupree, Morgan Keysor, Amber Lo, Miana Longerbeam, Laiken McGinnis, and Brissia Sanchez.
Dr. Chuck Bishop, the Superintendent of Jefferson County Schools, said, “By removing the application process and fees, we are simplifying what can often be an overwhelming step for students and their families. This partnership reinforces our commitment to ensuring every student has the support and opportunity to tackle what comes next.”
For more information about Shepherd University, visit the school’s website.