about the issues

Increasing Access to Education
Initiatives

As the demand for a well-educated workforce grows, many adults are returning to school. For many low-income workers, getting the information and services they need to enter and complete a college degree can be challenging. For these high-risk students, intensive, easy-to-access student services are the key to educational and career success. Clear Connections works with colleges and community organizations to develop innovations and improve investment in students services for Illinois’ community college students.

Curious? Read our one-page Vision and Principles or our quick Q&A page.

WE Releases Recommendations to Improve College Outcomes
Building Illinois’ Workforce of the Future identifies barriers that prevent adult and low-income students from completing college programs, and recommends changes that colleges, state agencies, and policymakers can implement to help more students succeed.

Become a member of the Clear Connections Project.

See a list of Clear Connections Project members.

Learn more about how your college can get involved.

If you are interested in joining Clear Connections or just have questions, contact Meegan Dugan Bassett at (312) 782-3902 x249 or mbassett@womenemployed.org

Resources
Strategies for Success is a curriculum guide designed to help colleges engage more students in career exploration early in their college studies. By introducing career exploration activities into existing core curriculum classes or providing required summer workshops, colleges may be able to increase the numbers of students who pick a best-fit major or concentration much earlier.