UpliftED knows that our region's Adult Learners are often overlooked and face unique barriers. There are more than 250,000 adults in Central Florida with "Some College" experience, but no degree.* We believe that reaching a 60% attainment level in our region lies in this population of eager-to-learn and ready-to-earn individuals, which includes veterans, career changers, and degree finishers. The adult learner population often juggles the many challenges that come with being a parent, working full-time, and seeking education—all at once.

*Data from the American Community Survey 2016 - www.census.gov

By using data to support the decisions and actions our four Impact Teams make, we believe we can close the gap of Nontraditional (or Adult) Learners that have a degree. Our goal: 60% attainment rate across Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties by 2025.

How do we get there?

Create a culture within the business community and higher education of encouraging employees and non-traditional learners to persist and attain a high-quality credential or degree.

Supporting post-secondary attainment targeting adult learners and expand completion efforts to adult learners.

We’ve compiled a webpage of resources for Adults Returning to School. Share these with nontraditional students who may need some help in crossing barriers to postsecondary education.