College Promise Marks a Decade of Transformative Education
College Promise is excited to commemorate its 10th Anniversary & Careers Institute, scheduled for October 20–21, at the Alamo Colleges District's Palo Alto College. This special event highlights a remarkable decade that has redefined access to education and economic opportunities for countless individuals across the country.
From its inception in 2015, College Promise has developed from an ambitious initiative into an expansive network comprising over 450 Promise programs throughout every state. This growth enables students to pursue higher education without facing overwhelming debt. The anniversary celebration aims to honor this significant impact while envisioning the next ten years of opportunities, interlinking education, careers, and community progress.
Recognizing Excellence: The National Impact Award
During this milestone event, College Promise will award the National Impact Award to 15 exceptional Promise programs. These honorees exemplify the remarkable influence of community-led dedication towards student success. The awardees are emblematic of the Promise movement, dedicated to extending access to higher education, facilitating completion, and crafting sustainable pathways from academia to the workforce.
The 2025 National Impact Award Honorees
Among this year's distinguished awardees are:
- AlamoPROMISE
- Arizona Promise Program
- Colorado Promise
- Detroit Promise
- Hawai?i Promise Scholarship
- Hope Chicago
- Los Angeles College Promise
- M.J. Foster Promise Program
- Massachusetts Free Community College Program
- New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship
- North Star Promise
- Richmond Promise
- Say Yes Buffalo
- Valley Promise
- Washington Student Achievement Council
Rosye Cloud, interim CEO of College Promise, expressed, "These 15 programs embody what's achievable when communities invest in their students. They are instrumental in helping students not only pursue college but also build futures for themselves and their communities, reinforcing the workforce for tomorrow and setting the benchmark for programs nationwide."
Bridging Education and Career Opportunities
The Careers Institute, held alongside the anniversary celebration, aims to unite educators, policymakers, employers, philanthropic leaders, and students to explore innovative methods that close the gap between education and workforce opportunities. The sessions will cover diverse topics such as career pathways, sustainable financing, employer partnerships, and ensuring equitable access to higher education. This approach is specially designed to prepare students for success in an ever-evolving economic landscape.
Highlights of the Event
Attendees can look forward to:
- Keynotes from influential national figures in education, workforce development, and philanthropy.
- Panel discussions featuring pioneering Promise programs from various regions.
- Engaging stories from students and alumni whose lives have been positively impacted by Promise programs.
- Networking opportunities connecting employers, educators, and policymakers to fortify pathways from academic environments to professional careers.
To learn more about the College Promise 10th Anniversary & Careers Institute, individuals are encouraged to visit the event information page.
About College Promise
College Promise operates as a national, nonpartisan nonprofit aimed at ensuring that all students in the United States can access the vital education, training, and support required to meet their educational and economic goals. Established in 2015, College Promise has expanded into a network of over 450 Promise programs, a growth exceeding 700%, representing all 50 states and aligning with more than 1,700 colleges and universities. The organization collaborates with various institutions nationwide to provide scholarships that cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, in addition to essential support services that empower students along their academic and career pathways.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Michelle Cooper, 516.241.9063
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the College Promise initiative?
The College Promise initiative aims to enhance access to higher education for all students, providing necessary resources to ensure their academic and economic success.
How many programs are part of the College Promise network?
Currently, the College Promise network includes over 450 programs across all 50 states, significantly expanding opportunities for students.
What does the National Impact Award recognize?
The National Impact Award honors exemplary Promise programs that demonstrate significant community involvement and commitment to student success.
When and where is the 10th Anniversary & Careers Institute taking place?
The event is set for October 20–21 at Palo Alto College, part of the Alamo Colleges District.
How does College Promise support students directly?
College Promise provides scholarships that cover tuition and fees, along with support services designed to aid students throughout their college and career journeys.
