The Need
It's estimated that by 2025, 60% of the Wisconsin workforce will need some sort of postsecondary credential. Currently the state stands at 39.6% and Kenosha County stands at 35%. Not only that, the median income for those with a bachelor's degree in Wisconsin is almost $19,000 more per year than those with only a high school diploma. This increase in income will lead to greater opportunities for individuals and higher tax revenue for the state.
It stands to reason then that concerns around postsecondary educational attainment are more than just for our students - it extends to employers, community members, future workers, civic leaders, and the future of southeastern Wisconsin.
It stands to reason then that concerns around postsecondary educational attainment are more than just for our students - it extends to employers, community members, future workers, civic leaders, and the future of southeastern Wisconsin.
Bright Spots
LUMINA TALENT HUB
In 2017, Kenosha and Racine counties were designated as a Lumina Talent Hub through the Lumina Foundation. This is an initiative led by Racine County’s Higher Expectations, with partners Gateway Technical College, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, and Building Our Future, with contributions from staff from Kenosha Unified School District and Racine Unified School District.
The first year of collaboration has led to:
HIGHER EDUCATION REGIONAL ALLIANCE (HERA)
HERA, a revolutionary collective of 18 post-secondary partners in the M7 region, represents over 170,000 students. The group seeks to build a fully capable, educated, and employed workforce to meet the current and future needs of the region through three overarching goals: (1) increase college completion; (2) strengthen program innovation, growth, and alignment; and (3) securing the talent bridge between higher education and regional employers.
To do this, the institutions will further connect their rich array of programs to the region’s employment needs; serving as a “go to” touch point for site locators and economic development practitioners; and advancing the region’s quality of life. Once Kenosha County high school students graduate and are ready for their next step, HERA’s work will be vital to their success.
In 2017, Kenosha and Racine counties were designated as a Lumina Talent Hub through the Lumina Foundation. This is an initiative led by Racine County’s Higher Expectations, with partners Gateway Technical College, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, and Building Our Future, with contributions from staff from Kenosha Unified School District and Racine Unified School District.
The first year of collaboration has led to:
- The first annual transfer articulation summit between Gateway and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside with an emphasis on creating career pathways;
- A pioneering data agreement between the two institutions that will help us better understand the transfer student experience;
- A visit from the University of Texas’ Dana Center, a national leader in work focused on streamlining students’ coursework in math and making sure credits transfer.
HIGHER EDUCATION REGIONAL ALLIANCE (HERA)
HERA, a revolutionary collective of 18 post-secondary partners in the M7 region, represents over 170,000 students. The group seeks to build a fully capable, educated, and employed workforce to meet the current and future needs of the region through three overarching goals: (1) increase college completion; (2) strengthen program innovation, growth, and alignment; and (3) securing the talent bridge between higher education and regional employers.
To do this, the institutions will further connect their rich array of programs to the region’s employment needs; serving as a “go to” touch point for site locators and economic development practitioners; and advancing the region’s quality of life. Once Kenosha County high school students graduate and are ready for their next step, HERA’s work will be vital to their success.
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside remains committed to partnering with Building Our Future to advance our shared education and community engagement goals. The focus on improving equity aligns with the mission and vision of UW-Parkside and positions Kenosha as a stronger community. I am proud of the progress and momentum we have established and look forward to our continued efforts.”
Dr. Deborah Ford,
University of Wisconsin-Parkside Chancellor
