Ficus Education and University of the Cumberlands Launch Debt-Free Degree Program for Frontline Workers

Ficus Education and University of the Cumberlands Join Forces

In a bold move to empower frontline workers, Ficus Education has teamed up with the University of the Cumberlands to establish a debt-free college education initiative tailored for employees of independent Chick-fil-A Operators and quick-service restaurant franchisees across the United States. This innovative partnership aims to alleviate financial barriers to education, allowing team members to pursue college degrees while continuing their work.

Bridging the Gap in Higher Education

The collaboration between Ficus Education and the University of the Cumberlands is designed to offer employees online degree programs with zero out-of-pocket tuition costs. This means working adults can advance their careers without accumulating the burden of student loan debt. The available programs cover a range of in-demand fields such as allied health, education, and computer science, all geared towards enhancing long-term career prospects in various industries.

Doug Danowski, president of Ficus Education, emphasized the significant value of employer investments in education for attracting and retaining talent. By enabling team members to pursue higher education without financial stress, employers can foster loyalty, increase staff retention, and ultimately support workforce development. Danowski stated, “When team members can pursue a college degree without taking on student debt and while continuing to work, it changes how long they stay, how they grow, and how they see their future with their employer.”

Flexible Online Learning Environment

The University of the Cumberlands takes pride in its commitment to flexible online learning, offering rolling eight-week start dates that accommodate the busy schedules of working adults. This structure allows team members to juggle full-time employment, family obligations, and educational pursuits seamlessly. With a strong focus on supporting diverse adult learning needs, the university has cultivated an environment conducive to student success.

Recognized nationally for its excellence in social mobility and affordability, the University of the Cumberlands has garnered accolades from reputable organizations including Forbes Advisor and Colleges of Distinction. Dr. Quentin Young, the university's president, noted the importance of providing high-quality education that facilitates meaningful career advancement for restaurant workers nationwide.

Supporting Employers in a Competitive Job Market

In today’s labor market, the ability to attract and retain skilled employees is more crucial than ever. This partnership not only provides career-aligned educational pathways for team members but also assists employers in developing their workforce in a competitive environment. The collaboration reflects a growing trend where businesses recognize education as a strategic advantage in improving employee quality and dedication.

Ficus Education focuses on employer-sponsored education benefits targeted at business owners within the quick-service restaurant sector, aiming to enhance access to college education for hourly and frontline workers.

Conclusion

This partnership between Ficus Education and the University of the Cumberlands serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for many frontline workers. By creating pathways to education that are affordable and flexible, they are taking crucial steps to empower individuals and foster a culture of growth and retention within the workforce.

As the program rolls out, both Ficus Education and the University of the Cumberlands are poised to set a new standard for access to higher education in the workforce, proving that meaningful support and development can transform lives.

For more information on Ficus Education and the University of the Cumberlands, you can visit their respective websites.