A unique program at Eastern Connecticut State University, which was funded by the Hartford Foundation's
Latino Endowment Fund, has received a
2010 CollegeKeys Compact Innovation Award from The College Board.
In 2007, the Latino Endowment Fund awarded a $40,000 grant to pilot the Dual Enrollment Initiative. The program's initial success has allowed Eastern to secure a $300,000 earmark from the U.S. Justice Department, as well as funding from other sources, to continue.
"Now more than ever, it is critical that as a nation, we work together to make college access and success a reality for all students, including those from low-income backgrounds," said College Board President Gaston Caperton.
About the Initiative...The Dual Enrollment Initiative aims to increase the number of Latino students who successfully transfer from Quinebaug Valley Community College to a four-year program at Eastern. The students begin their collegiate studies enrolled full time at Quinebaug, take one course at Eastern, and live on Eastern's campus. Gradually, they take more courses at Eastern as they improve academically.
The students, who are recommended for the program by guidance counselors at Hartford Public High School, come from low-income backgrounds and are not planning to apply to college. To support their success in the program, they receive a host of services, including professional and peer tutoring, academic and financial aid advising, and family outreach.
Hear from students about their success in the program >>Learn more about the Latino Endowment Fund >>
