Just recently, 589 students graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. This included 506 bachelor’s degrees, with many being first-generation college graduates. The age range of graduates was impressive, from 19 to 79 years old.
Amidst this celebration, UH Hilo gained recognition as one of 17 rural-serving public universities in the U.S. to join the first-ever Rural Student Success Network. It’s the only university from Hawaiʻi in this initiative.
The Rural Student Success Network, led by Ithaka S+R and backed by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, aims to help students from rural backgrounds achieve their educational goals. This project is funded by a two-year grant from the Educational Credit Management Corporation Foundation.
Chancellor Bonnie D. Irwin emphasized the importance of this network, stating, “Every graduate represents how rural-serving institutions can change lives.” She sees this as a fresh opportunity for UH Hilo to work with other schools to help more students succeed.
Supporting Transfer Students and Workforce Needs
Over the next year and a half, participating universities will focus on three main goals. They will help community college students finish their bachelor’s degrees, bring adult learners back into education, and ensure degree programs match local job market needs. UH Hilo plans to zero in on transfer students and workforce requirements, particularly those adults who left school but want to return.
Aligning Education with Local Careers
To enhance support, each institution will receive a $15,000 grant and detailed analyses of how well their programs meet local job demands. The focus will be on industries such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and sustainability in Hawaiʻi.
Chancellor Irwin described the initiative, saying, “We’re working to connect community college students with their paths to a degree here. It’s about inviting back those who once left and aligning our degrees with what local employers need.”
The Bigger Picture
As of 2023, studies show that nearly 60% of college students work while studying, highlighting the need for flexible education that accommodates adult learners. The pandemic also exacerbated educational challenges for many rural students, underscoring the importance of initiatives like this one.
This initiative isn’t just about numbers or degrees. It’s about real change. It’s about uplifting communities and creating pathways for all students, no matter where they start. For more details, you can read more from Ithaka S+R.
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