CCC receives $990K grant to foster student retention

PLATTSBURGH | Clinton Community College (CCC) has announced it has been awarded a grant of $990,000 from the State University of New York (SUNY) Transformation Fund to implement the Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) program, which will start in the spring semester. This initiative aims to enhance retention and graduation rates for first-time students and provide critical support for their educational journey. CCC is one of 13 SUNY community colleges chosen to participate in this program, and the grant will span three years to replicate the successful Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) model originally created by the City University of New York (CUNY). In total, SUNY is funding 25 campuses to replicate both ASAP and the baccalaureate counterpart, Accelerate, Complete, Engage (ACE). Carey Goyette, Vice President for Academic Affairs at CCC, expressed her excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to be able to offer the ASAP program to our students. ASAP will provide financial support to cover gaps in tuition, assist with textbook expenses as well as non-academic expenses like transportation or food." The ASAP program at CCC will not only provide financial support but also offer structured pathways and guidance through academic degree programs. Students will benefit from highly personalized support services in areas of academic advisement, coaching, career planning, and tutoring. Additionally, ASAP students will have opportunities to engage in academic and social activities, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Goyette explained, "The four risk factors that contribute to our students not completing their associate degree are financial insecurity, lack of engagement, mental health and wellness, and academics. The ASAP program aligns well with the needs of our students, so it was imperative for our institution to be a part of this initiative." Beyond removing barriers and retaining students, the ASAP program also seeks to improve 2-year and 3-year graduation rates. The CUNY ASAP program, which SUNY's model is replicating, has nearly doubled graduation rates, substantially improving student persistence and success. To support the implementation of this program, CCC is currently in the process of hiring an ASAP Program Director and ASAP Counselor, both of whom will be singularly focused on the success of ASAP students. The program is set to begin in the upcoming spring semester, starting with a small pilot group of 40 students, with plans to expand to another 110 students in the following fall semester. To be eligible for the ASAP program, students must have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and applied for Pell Grants, be first-time or transfer students, and be enrolled full-time. Students with concurrent enrollment credits (college courses taken while in high school) are also eligible for this program. For more information about Clinton Community College's ASAP program or admissions at CCC, please visit the Admissions Office, call 518-562-4170, or email admissions@clinton.edu.

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CCC receives $990K grant to foster student retention

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