USA Joins 75,000 Degrees Initiative

The University of South Alabama and Bishop State Community College were recognized today as higher education partners in the Mobile Area Education Foundation’s 75,000 Degrees Initiative, which seeks to double the number of Mobile County citizens with post-secondary degrees and credentials by 2030 to meet the needs of our region’s growing workforce. Two other major partners are the Education Commission and the Lumina Foundation.

“No one college system in Mobile can do this alone,” said Lynne Chronister, USA vice president for research and economic development. In support of the 75,000 Degrees Initiative, South has forged partnerships with Spring Hill College and through the Pathway USA program with Bishop State and other area two-year institutions. "We seek to create a seamless transition to South Alabama. We will ensure student access, success and completion,” Chronister added.  There are nearly 300 students in the Pathway USA program, which was launched last fall.

The initiative's slogan, “The Finish Line Has Moved,” reminds the community that a high school degree is no longer enough to live a financially fulfilling life. In order to meet the 2030 goal, and to be prepared for the future job growth projected over the next 10 years, some 5,000 degrees/credentials must be awarded every year through 2030.