Grants Awarded: 2008 - $150,000; 2009 - $200,000

Partners: Making Connections Louisville, MensWork, Presbyterian Community Center and Project ULTra

The Change Makers grants to Jefferson Community & Technical College are enabling JCTC to address the student-centered and institutional barriers that are hindering academic performance and degree attainment for students residing in California, Phoenix Hill, Shelby Park and Smoketown. During the academic years 2007 and 2008, over 200 students from the four neighborhoods enrolled at JCTC. But due to various reasons, half were unable to complete a two-year degree.

The first year was devoted to planning a systematic institutional assessment and the development of a team-based pilot project involving students, faculty and staff. The pilot project had six mentors and 24 students, and focused on developing new ways to coordinate faculty mentoring with support services to improve student success.

The results of the pilot project were immediate and impressive. After completing the first semester, 92% of the Change Maker students felt “more connected” to the college through their faculty mentors and project team leaders, and 73% reported having a clearer understanding of college processes. Student retention increased dramatically with 82% of the students registering for summer and/or fall classes.

The comments from student participants illustrate the impact of the project. “I never thought I belonged in college. But I’ve realized that I am the typical college student. I do belong here.” “I learned that I was doing all the wrong things communicating. Now I ask questions and really listen.” “My mentor helped me realize that my education is as important as the rest of my life. Without it, I’m not going to achieve my goals. The connections I’ve made through the program are also helping me outside of school.”

The faculty mentors also became much more aware of the obstacles students face. Faculty comments included: “I didn’t know how goals . . . seem insurmountable for students;” and “I’m learning to balance ‘high academic standards’ with the support and resources students need.”  JCTC is working to increase the number of faculty and staff participants to serve more students from the targeted neighborhoods.