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10,000 Degrees Launches Strategic Plan for Enhanced Student Support

Today marks a significant milestone for 10,000 Degrees, a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving college access and career pathways for low-income and first-generation students. The organization has announced its 2027-2031 Strategic Plan, which aims to expand its reach and support for over 150,000 new students.

Since its inception in 1981, 10,000 Degrees has positively impacted the lives of around 92,000 students, dispensing more than $123 million in scholarships. With a graduation rate that is double the national average and over 85% of recipients graduating without debt, the organization clearly demonstrates the power of support systems in a student's journey through higher education.

The launch of this strategic plan follows a remarkable $42 million philanthropic contribution from MacKenzie Scott and Yield Giving, which is instrumental in realizing the ambitious goals set for the upcoming years. Kim Mazzuca, the president and CEO of 10,000 Degrees, emphasized the significance of this investment:
“Over 45 years of helping students overcome barriers to higher education, we've learned what's possible when students have the resources, guidance, and support to succeed. This strategic plan presents an opportunity to build on what we know while setting an ambitious vision for the future.”

Objectives for 2031

The strategic plan clearly outlines a commitment to supporting 155,000 new students from disadvantaged backgrounds by 2031. The organization envisions directing its efforts towards:

• - 100,000 high school students through college access programming
• - 20,000 college students with scholarships and career guidance
• - 5,000 graduates in starting meaningful careers

To achieve these objectives, 10,000 Degrees intends to broaden its programs into five additional regions within California and beyond.

Addressing the College Opportunity Gap

The stark contrast between college enrollment and graduation rates among different socioeconomic groups highlights the urgency of 10,000 Degrees' mission. According to statistics, 74% of students from affluent backgrounds enroll in college, and 58% graduate with a degree by age 24. Conversely, only 42% of students from low-income families manage to enroll, with a mere 14% graduating. This systematic disparity cannot be overlooked, as it reinforces cycles of poverty.

The 2027-2031 strategic plan aims to tackle these challenges directly by providing the necessary resources, guidance, and financial assistance to those in need.

Programmatic Priorities

To align with its ambitious goals, the organization has established five key programmatic priorities that will direct its strategies through 2031:
1. Enhancing Community College Success: Expanding college readiness programs and support services to bolster graduation rates.
2. Incorporating Innovation and Technology: Utilizing predictive analytics and AI to create an integrated ecosystem for scholars and improve organizational performance.
3. Promoting College Completion Equity: Sharing successful practices and building partnerships to foster a national conversation about equitable access to college completion.
4. Strengthening Organizational Adaptability: Reinforcing internal growth and support for volunteers and alumni to maintain sustainable success.
5. Ensuring Financial Stability: Diversifying funding streams and enhancing contributions to guarantee the organization’s long-term growth and resilience.

With a clear vision and effective strategies laid out, 10,000 Degrees is poised to make a substantial impact on the educational landscape, empowering a new wave of students to achieve their academic and career dreams.

For further details, visit 10,000 Degrees.

For media inquiries, please contact Kyle McIntyre at [email protected] or call 646-639-1379.