In 2019, the Kansas Promise Scholarship was established by legislators at the Kansas Statehouse (Sam Bailey/KansasReflector).
The American Dream, which is often associated with the desire for higher education and the hope of a successful future, has become harder to attain for many individuals. This is due to the significant increase in college expenses and the burden of student loans. However, Kansas has found a beacon of hope and positivity in the form of the Kansas Promise Scholarship. This initiative has not only transformed access to higher education but has also played a vital role in rejuvenating local workforces.
The Kansas Promise Scholarship, established in 2019 by the Kansas Legislature, is a state-funded program that offers financial assistance to eligible students who are pursuing higher education in high-demand fields like aviation, health care, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. This scholarship specifically covers tuition and fees for eligible programs, with the objective of making education more accessible and fostering workforce development within the state.
As the president of WSU Tech, I witness firsthand the profound effect the Kansas Promise Scholarship has on our student body.
Since the 2021-2022 academic year, 960 students have utilized the scholarship to support their education at WSU Tech. The number of enrolled students has consistently grown each year, starting with 160 students in 2021-2022, increasing to 251 in 2022-2023, and reaching 549 in the current 2023-2024 academic year. The scholarship has had a significant financial impact, with funding starting at $563,566 in its inaugural year and now exceeding $3 million in the present year. There are still available awards for this school year until the end of June.
WSU Tech has witnessed an undeniable impact. From the fall of 2023 to the spring of 2024, we have observed a remarkable 10% surge in student retention. Additionally, we have experienced continuous enrollment growth, with two consecutive semesters setting new records. This achievement can be attributed to our comprehensive approach, which not only attracts students but also provides unwavering support throughout their journey to graduation.
The Kansas Promise Scholarship goes beyond providing financial aid. It serves as a lifeline for those who once believed that higher education was out of reach. This scholarship is specifically designed for a diverse group of students, many of whom will be the first in their families to attend college. By covering the cost of tuition and fees for eligible programs, the Kansas Promise Scholarship enables students to pursue their educational goals without the burden of overwhelming debt.
In addition, this scholarship plays a vital role in supporting our local economy. It aims to meet the demands of high-need sectors like aviation, healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing, aligning students’ education with the workforce requirements of our community. This strategic approach ensures that students have a direct pathway to employment while addressing the skill gaps prevalent in local industries.
As these students graduate and enter the workforce, they not only bring their skills but also a deep sense of commitment to the community that has supported and nurtured them throughout their academic journey.
The Kansas Promise Scholarship has proven to be a resounding success, as evidenced by the 405 students who have benefited from this financial aid to successfully earn their degrees or technical certificates at WSU Tech. Out of these students, a notable 199 have seamlessly transitioned into the Kansas workforce, making significant contributions to key sectors of our local economy. Meanwhile, the remaining 206 students are well on their way to pursuing higher degrees, further enhancing their educational and career opportunities.
But these results go beyond mere numbers. They encompass the inspiring stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed. Students who, if not for this funding, may have delayed or even given up on their dreams, are now flourishing in various careers that ignite their passion. They are emerging as the future cohort of skilled professionals, eagerly poised to make meaningful contributions to our communities.
As we approach the milestone of nearly 1,000 lives impacted at WSU Tech alone, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride for the hard work and dedication of our team. I am also grateful for the support from our state and its legislatures. This collective success demonstrates our shared belief in the transformative power of education and its crucial role in shaping a brighter future for everyone involved.
The Kansas Promise Scholarship goes beyond being just a program. It represents a promise – a promise of opportunity, growth, and a brighter future. It serves as a model for other states to emulate, showcasing the power of investing in education as a means to strengthen the very fabric of our society. Initiatives like these are the foundation of a thriving community, a strong economy, and a prosperous state.
Dr. Sheree Utash took on the role of president at Wichita Area Technical College (WATC) in 2015 and has been instrumental in guiding the college’s transformation into the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech). The Kansas Reflector’s opinion section aims to give a voice to those impacted by public policies or left out of public discussions. For details on how you can contribute your own commentary, click here.
