Athens State University has been selected as one of 17 institutions nationwide to participate in the Rural Student Success Network, a national initiative led by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) in collaboration with Ithaka S+R and supported through a two-year grant from Educational Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) Foundation’s Rural Impact Initiative.
Designed to strengthen student success and expand economic mobility at rural-serving colleges and universities, the Rural Student Success Network brings together public, bachelor’s degree-granting institutions committed to addressing the evolving needs of rural learners and the communities they serve.
Rural-serving institutions play a critical role in providing access to higher education and driving economic opportunity within their regions. At the same time, many face challenges including changing demographics, enrollment declines, and limited resources. Through this collaborative effort, participating institutions will work to develop and strengthen strategies that improve student outcomes and support regional workforce development.
Over the course of the initiative, Athens State and fellow cohort institutions will focus on three priority areas: increasing bachelor’s degree completion among community college transfer students, expanding enrollment and support for adult learners, and aligning academic offerings with local and regional workforce needs. They will also take part in collaborative learning opportunities, data-driven self-evaluations, and specialized technical support throughout the initiative.
Each institution will receive a $15,000 subgrant from Ithaka S+R to assist with participation in meetings, data collaboration, and ongoing improvement efforts. In addition, institutions will gain tailored insights drawn from institutional, state, and federal data to support strategic planning and alignment between academic programs and workforce needs.
Representing institutions across 12 states from Hawaii to Vermont, the Rural Student Success Network reflects the diversity of rural higher education nationwide. Throughout the initiative, participants will serve as collaborative partners, share effective practices, and identify strategies that strengthen transfer pathways, re-engage adult learners, and better connect academic programs with workforce demand.
“Athens State is proud to join the Rural Student Success Network and collaborate with institutions nationwide to strengthen opportunities for transfer students, adult learners, and workforce-ready graduates,” said Dr. Dave Ragsdale, Dean of Colleges. “This initiative aligns closely with our mission to expand educational access and support the economic vitality of the communities we serve.”