ATHENS, Ala. — Athens State University will be receiving a $2.2 million grant from the Department of Education's Rural Postsecondary & Economic Development (RPED) initiative. The goal of this grant is to give a boost to postsecondary education enrollment, persistence, and completion rates among students in rural communities.
Out of the $44.5 million RPED grants handed out by the Biden-Harris Administration to 22 higher education institutions, Athens State stands alone as the sole recipient in the state. The grant is set to run until the end of 2027 and will be used to leverage instructional technology, comprehensive student support, and innovative educational outreach strategies. The ultimate goal is to provide rural students with flexible and accessible learning opportunities, equipping them for success in postsecondary education and high-paying careers.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, only 29% of individuals aged 18 to 24 are enrolled in higher education in rural communities, a figure significantly lower than their urban and suburban counterparts, with almost 48% and 42%. Rural students face additional challenges, including financial barriers, navigating the college application process, reliable transportation, food and housing insecurity, and limited access to healthcare and high-speed internet.
Dr. Katherine Kandalec-Holm, Interim Dean of the College of Education, expressed gratitude for the grant, showing their commitment to bridging the educational gap for rural students.
“With this generous grant from the U.S. Department of Education, we aim to bridge the educational gap for rural students by not only increasing exposure and recruitment efforts but also by offering comprehensive support services,” Dr. Katherine Kandalec-Holm, Interim Dean of the College of Education said. “Our focus on flexible course delivery, mental health, telehealth, and online tutoring reflects our dedication to the holistic success of every student. This funding will empower us to broaden our reach, enhance student support services, and create a more accessible and flexible learning environment. This grant opens doors to a new era of education for rural students in Alabama. We believe in the transformative power of accessible education and are excited to implement flexible course designs and support services that cater to the unique needs of our students, fostering a community of learning that transcends traditional boundaries.”
Athens State University is looking ahead to the grant's impact on students.
“This grant will help us continue our legacy of providing engaging, flexible learning opportunities for students from rural communities,” Dr. Lee Vartanian, Interim Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services said. “I look forward to seeing the immediate impact this program will have on current and future students.”