false11/25/2020Kentucky colleges and universities continued to make substantial progress toward the state's educational attainment goals in 2019-20, exceeding targets for both STEM+H degrees and degrees among underrepresented minority students. According to the latest figures from CPE, production of undergraduate credentials rose 3.3% compared to the prior year. false06/02/2021Despite growing diversity in Kentucky's workforce, Black and Asian employees still face massive income disparities when compared to white peers, even after earning a superior college degree. That's one of several findings in a newly released research brief from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education. false05/05/2021Let's face it – budgets are boring. But the state's new spending plan for 2021-22 includes some major victories for higher education and a lot of stuff you really should know. We combed through the whole thing so you don't have to.false10/08/2020CPE is releasing a series of six research briefs over the next three months focused on the impact of dual credit courses and how more support for dual credit programs could help narrow achievement gaps in Kentucky. The briefs provide a follow up to CPE's major research project into dual credit earlier this year. false05/05/2021This past Saturday, I tuned in to watch Medina Spirit win the 147th Kentucky Derby. It was a far cry from last year, when the race was run over Labor Day weekend to a nearly empty Churchill Downs. presidentpresidentfalse06/30/2020Students at five Kentucky universities will not face any tuition hikes this fall under plans approved today by the state Council on Postsecondary Education as part of a strategic effort to maintain college affordability during COVID-19. Public campuses are on track for one of the smallest average increases in tuition in decades, although rates at three state universities remain pending.false09/07/2021While the CPE is working to ensure postsecondary education is affordable for all Kentuckians, there’s more that students, parents and Kentucky’s leaders can do to lower the cost of college.false05/14/2020CPE is providing a $440,000 boost to public colleges and universities this year to help with emergency expenses related to COVID-19. The funding – approved in April – will assist with the growing challenges on campuses, such as the move to online instruction or the need for more professional development, improved internet access or emergency student housing.false04/16/2021The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education announced today that 19 professionals from across the state will join the Academic Leadership Development Institute (ALDI) this year to prepare for influential roles in higher education.false03/03/2021Four years ago, Buffalo B. Stille had already launched his own business, started a family and led a successful hip-hop career with the Grammy-nominated group, Nappy Roots. But at 38 years old, the rapper and entrepreneur faced a challenge he had avoided for years: homework.false06/02/2021Over the past five years, minority students in Kentucky have gained significant ground in higher education, and campus leaders say a renewed focus on equity at every level is helping drive the progress.false10/29/2020Jacky Bravo was excited to learn about different cultures and perspectives in her dual credit humanities course last year. But the lesson that most prepared her for college was her teacher's insistence on deadlines.false07/06/2021CPE announced that Rick W. Smith Sr., a professional with more than 30 years of experience in higher education and private sector leadership, will serve as the Council's new associate vice president for workforce and economic development.false01/07/2021Shannon Gilkey, a senior policy advisor for the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education and vice chancellor at the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, has been appointed as the new Rhode Island commissioner on postsecondary education.false02/17/2020Every February, we celebrate Black History Month because of the efforts of a Berea College graduate, Carter G. Woodson. Woodson was a prominent African American scholar and historian who started his higher education career as a part-time student at Berea.presidentpresidentfalse07/06/2021CPE has approved the final tuition rates for public colleges and universities next year, holding increases near historic lows while also helping campuses replenish revenue following the pandemic. Kentucky State University and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System are forgoing rate increases altogether.false11/25/2020The Council is launching the final phase of a $400,000 grant project – funded by Lumina Foundation – to improve outreach and support for college-going adults. CPE secured the grant from Lumina in 2018 to develop Kentucky's Adult Promise program, a multi-level strategy to raise awareness of educational opportunities and increase enrollment among adult learners.false04/09/2020Juggling two exams, two term papers and an oral presentation, the last thing Lydia Burns needed this week was a broken laptop. "It's the worst time in the world for that to happen," the University of Louisville (UofL) senior saidfalse10/08/2020Why does higher education matter? President Aaron Thompson, head of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, delivered an unequivocal answer last week to students at Somerset Community College's commencement ceremony.false07/06/2021When Madisonville Community College (MCC) looked to increase retention among low-income students a few years ago, administrators started with a basic need: food.false12/04/2020The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education is helping lead a new statewide partnership to assist students as they progress through each level of the public education system, from preschool through college and into sustainable careers. Called the Commonwealth Education Continuum, the collaboration will bring together 27 experts with broad experience from early childhood to adult education.continuumcontinuumfalse08/30/2020This month's newsletter features an interview with Colby Birkes, CPE's new student representative. COVID-19 upended Colby's senior year at Morehead State University.presidentpresidentfalse05/05/2021As I'm ending an important chapter in my life, I look back and see every difficult and joyful moment in college that made me who I am today – and I'm glad to say I'm proud of that person.false02/03/2021Dozens of state policy leaders have kicked off the first meeting of the Commonwealth Education Continuum, a new effort to help students successfully progress through each level of Kentucky's education system and into the workforce.continuumcontinuumfalse01/08/2021President Aaron Thompson, head of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, said Friday that the new budget plan from Gov. Andy Beshear would help shore up higher education and strengthen the workforce at an urgent time for the state's economy.false08/31/2020CPE President Aaron Thompson, head of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, is praising the widespread efforts on campuses to protect health by requiring face masks in classrooms and at most public gatherings.false03/03/2021The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education is calling on education leaders across the state to take decisive steps to combat a drop in college enrollment, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. The latest data from CPE shows that undergraduate enrollment at four-year public universities declined 2.1% in fall 2020, and it's down 7.3% compared to five years ago. false01/07/2021As associate vice president for P-20 policy and programs, Amanda Ellis will help coordinate CPE's role on the new Commonwealth Education Continuum. She has more than two decades of experience in education, including 14 years at Kentucky middle and elementary schools. continuumcontinuumfalse10/08/2020President Aaron Thompson, head of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, has been appointed to the executive committee of the State Higher Education Executive Officers (SHEEO), a national advocacy group focused on higher education policy.false09/29/2020The North Star was a navigational guide for ancient sailors due to its fixed position in the sky. In the Antebellum south, escaped slaves, under cover of darkness, used the North Star to chart a course to freedom. Today, the North Star has come to symbolize any guiding principle or purpose.presidentpresidentfalse05/07/2021Even with the turmoil of COVID-19, minority students in Kentucky achieved steady gains in college degrees and credentials last year, and overall, the state remains on pace to meet its educational attainment goals in 2030. CPE released those findings – among many others – as part of its annual progress report on colleges and universities in the commonwealth. false04/29/2020We use the term every day now – "new normal." It applies to how we greet each other, how we travel, how our economy works. But how do we ensure our new normal reflects our values on diversity, equity and inclusion?false06/02/2021President Aaron Thompson, head of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), received the Health Care Governance Leadership Award from the Kentucky Hospital Association last month at the group's annual convention.false01/07/2021An analyst for the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education has received recognition from an international educators group for her efforts to support diversity and promote cross-cultural experiences. The NAFSA: Association of International Educators recently awarded Jie "Grace" Dai with the Region VI Champion of Diversity and Inclusion in International Education award. false07/29/2020New estimates from the CPE show that COVID-19 has inflicted a staggering financial toll on public colleges and universities, driving unexpected costs and lost revenue at a time when campuses are striving to keep tuition low. CPE President Aaron Thompson provided the numbers to state lawmakers this month in a report to the Interim Budget Review Subcommittee on Education.false08/02/2021CPE will award up to $500,000 in competitive grants this fall to help educator preparation programs increase the number of K-12 teachers in Kentucky from underrepresented groups. The money is a part of the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Fund, known as GEER II, which aims to help campuses mitigate the impact of COVID-19. false02/03/2021Despite a spring semester marred by COVID-19, graduation and retention rates continued to climb at Kentucky's public universities last year, and the net cost of attending college has held mostly steady across the state. The latest data from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education shows that the six-year graduation rate at four-year public universities reached 56.4% in the 2019-20 academic year. false07/29/2020In a financial win for students, the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education finalized tuition rates this month for public universities, preserving college affordability with the smallest average rate increase in decades. The historic move allows resident, undergraduate students to enter the 2020-21 academic year with an average tuition increase of only 0.7%. false06/02/2021CPE is distributing $1.5 million in grants to support nearly two dozen summer "bridge" programs that prepare students for early college success. Gov. Andy Beshear and CPE President Aaron Thompson have announced that 21 programs at Kentucky colleges and universities are receiving grants of up to $100,000 each. false06/30/2020CPEhas released a new report showing that the Council's statewide diversity policy continues to drive progress at public colleges and universities across the commonwealth. Adopted in 2016, the Policy for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion calls on campuses to create an inclusive environment that produces culturally competent graduates and promotes academic success for all students.false07/17/2020Campus faculty are working hard to connect personally with students, provide hands-on learning experiences and overcome technological barriers, according to a group of faculty members. And those who taught online courses prior to the spring 2020 semester reported a much smoother transition to remote learning this year than those without previous experience.false06/30/2020William Payne, CPE's vice president for finance and administration, has served at the Council since 2001 – a little more than 19 years. He brings close to 40 years of experience in both the public and private sectors to his role at CPE.false09/01/2020With the fall 2020 semester well under way, a new 22-member student panel has begun advising the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education on a diverse range of student concerns and policies, such as online learning, campus equity and mental health.false05/14/2020Austin Tackett and Baylee Henderson breeze through an acoustic version of "The Jitterbug Waltz" before Tackett breaks in with a few encouraging words for the students and parents watching at home. "Keeping the cup half full instead of half empty is good practice," Tackett reassures his viewers. false10/29/2020Dawn Offutt serves as the director of initiatives for diversity, equity and inclusion for the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education. A native of Lexington, she first joined the Council in 2012 as director of program services for GEAR UP Kentucky and later served as a senior associate. false06/02/2021The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education has capped tuition increases near historic lows for the next two years, limiting the cost increase to students while also providing financial flexibility for public colleges and universities. The move allows universities to raise tuition up to 3% through 2023 – an average increase of 1.5% each year.false04/01/2021New research from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education shows that, even with advanced college degrees, women in Kentucky continue to earn significantly less than men over a lifetime. CPE released the findings today as part of an ongoing series of research briefs on education and earnings in Kentucky. false04/01/2020While thousands moved out of student housing last month in response to COVID-19, Kentucky colleges and universities still expect hundreds of students to remain on campus this semester – due mostly to financial challenges or bans on international travel. Institutions have moved quickly in recent weeks to establish outreach and support services as campuses transition toward online courses and remote learning. false11/25/2020The Council has launched a new data-driven assessment of academic programs to help ensure they align with the state's strategic goals and prepare students for career success in the evolving marketplace. CPE is partnering with Gray Associates, a nationally-recognized consulting and analytics firm, to conduct the review.false07/06/2021Lilly Massa-McKinley, a career leader in higher education with a focus on improving equity and student outcomes, will serve as executive director for the new Kentucky Student Success Collaborative. CPE, which created the collaborative this year, announced her appointment today.false05/11/2020In a testament to Kentucky's statewide diversity plan for higher education, colleges and universities across the commonwealth made important strides in 2018-19 in closing the achievement gap for underrepresented minority students. According to the latest progress report by CPE, bachelor's degrees conferred to minority students at public and private institutions increased 5.3% over the previous year.false08/31/2020Growing up, I remember the dissatisfaction my parents experienced in careers that met their financial needs, but lacked fulfillment in many other areas. And after watching their struggles for career advancement over the years, I was certain higher education was right for my future.false09/01/2020The number of Kentucky high school students enrolling in dual credit courses has soared more than 75% in recent years, helping to improve grades and shore up college persistence, particularly among low-income students. Those findings are part of a new report from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, which measured the impact of dual credit on student success at the state's public, four-year universities. false03/03/2021State lawmakers are hammering out the final details of a new budget proposal, and a number of education-related bills remain on the move as the Kentucky General Assembly heads into the final weeks of this year's legislative session. Both chambers look to pass a budget bill by March 16, which would provide lawmakers enough time to override any vetoes from Gov. Andy Beshear.false03/03/2021CPE is tapping $1.5 million in federal relief funds to improve mental health services for students across the state as COVID-19 continues to drive stress and uncertainty on college campuses. false08/04/2021Higher Education Matters, now more than ever. As we witnessed during the pandemic, Kentucky workers with a college degree or credential were far more likely to stay employed than high school graduates. And as Kentucky continues its recovery, we are seeing new opportunities open up every day.presidentpresidentfalse06/02/2021If you've been paying attention to higher education trends over the last decade, you're probably familiar with the term "data analytics." In a nutshell, data analytics is the practice of using student data to optimize learning outcomes and increase efficiency.presidentpresidentfalse09/07/2021CPE's latest analysis identified academic programs that prepare URM and low-income students for successful careers. Learn about the report’s 10 recommendations to improve equitable career outcomes.false05/05/2021CPE, under the leadership of President Aaron Thompson, received the prestigious Government Partner of the Year award at the 2021 Derby Diversity Business Summit in Louisville. The honor was part of the annual Isaac Murphy Legacy Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that advance diversity and have a positive impact on Kentucky's workforce, communities and quality of life.false01/07/2021Last year, COVID-19 put higher education to the test, but colleges and universities met the challenge through ingenuity and innovation. As institutions reimagined procedures and protocols for bringing students back to campus, they also made important contributions beyond the classroom. presidentpresidentfalse01/07/2021The Kentucky General Assembly kicked off the 2021 legislative session this week, facing the dual challenges of COVIID-19 and the need to pass a new state budget under a short, 30-day deadline.false03/28/2020The Academic Leadership Development Institute (ALDI) has launched a second year of professional development sessions to prepare a group of 17 minority faculty and staff members for leadership roles in Kentucky higher education. The program is providing a series of highly-interactive sessions and small group seminars led by faculty and administrators from across Kentucky and other states.false05/29/2019To all of the students who recently graduated from a Kentucky college or university, thank you for having the fortitude and determination to make it to the finish line. You've achieved something powerful and transformative that will dramatically improve the quality of your life—a college credential.false07/29/2020Kim Drummond, executive director of GEAR UP Kentucky, has worked in education for 18 years, including more than 11 years at the Council on Postsecondary Education, where she has also worked in marketing and communications. false09/29/2020Moody's Investors Service is raising alarms in Kentucky that while rising unemployment may drive up college enrollment in the near term, students will face greater difficulties paying tuition, causing revenues to fall at a time when state funding remains scarce.false07/06/2021Planning and development for CPE’s new statewide strategic agenda is well underway. We’ve spoken to hundreds of constituents, policy experts and campus leaders, along with students and parents. Find out more about our process and priorities for the new plan as we move forward.presidentpresidentfalse04/01/2021Kentucky's education workforce is expected to grow 3% over the next decade. However, colleges and universities need to train thousands of more teachers to address shortfalls in schools and help increase diversity among educators. CPE unveiled those findings today as part of an in-depth look at the state's public and private education sector.false05/05/2021The weekly meetings at the University of Kentucky sound almost like a ritual at Amazon or Google headquarters. Every Friday, around 70 campus leaders – faculty, staff and administrators – gather to review dozens of charts and data points that provide a real-time snapshot of student performance. false06/17/2020Despite COVID-19, the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) is continuing to promote collaboration among campuses through two sets of online events that focus on academic issues and diversity in higher education. In total, CPE has hosted nine events since mid-May, attracting hundreds of administrators and academics from across the state to discuss challenges in higher education along with potential solutions heading into the fall 2020 semester.false11/25/2020December is the month for year-end lists, when editors curate the best the year had to offer. That got me thinking—what would earn a spot on 2020's "best of higher education" list?presidentpresidentfalse04/08/2020These are challenging times for colleges and universities even before the COVID-19 crisis. Public concern about tuition rates, fewer high school students to fill classrooms, and declining enrollment are just a few of the issues keeping higher education leaders awake at night. false04/20/2021The first woman to receive a bachelor's degree in Kentucky was Belle Clement Gunn of Lexington, who earned a B.S. in 1888 from State College, which later became the University of Kentucky. That may sound like ancient history, but it was actually only 133 years ago, about the span of two lifetimes.false04/01/2021CPE has received a generous $2.1 million grant from the James Graham Brown Foundation to create a new statewide initiative that will help improve equity and close outcome gaps on college campuses. The effort, called the Kentucky Student Success Collaborative, represents a unique front in higher education. false08/03/2021Students who took dual credit courses before enrolling at the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) were more likely to score higher grades and earn a college credential, according to a new study.false01/28/2021New research from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education shows that college degrees and other credentials provide a substantial boost to lifetime earnings, often totaling upwards of $1 million or more. The findings are part of a new series of research briefs on education and median lifetime earnings in Kentucky that CPE plans to release over the next several weeks.false02/03/2021Education groups in Kentucky are launching an information campaign this month calling on students to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA form. Filling out the form is a crucial step to receive need-based aid that you don't pay back and other financial assistance.false02/03/2021Even before the economic challenges of COVID-19, more and more Kentucky universities have been turning to "last dollar" scholarships in a bid to ramp up financial aid and help students with the greatest needs continue on to college.false04/27/2020As higher education grapples with the enormous administrative and teaching challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, we also need to respond to the impact on the future employability of our students, especially those graduating this term.false04/20/2021Leading systemic change is perhaps the most challenging job of a higher education coordinating agency. On the one hand, public colleges and universities are highly autonomous, with unique missions, strengths and audiences. presidentpresidentfalse07/01/2020Kentucky colleges and universities along with key leaders in education launched a new public awareness campaign – called FAFSA Fridays – to remind students about the importance of applying for federal assistance this summer. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA form, provides high school seniors, parents, college students and adult learners with a vital opportunity to access financial assistance ahead of the 2020 fall semester.false04/22/2020As COVID-19 casts a pall over college life, Kentucky campuses are launching personalized outreach campaigns, reducing financial barriers and offering online support services like never before – all in an effort to keep students engaged and returning in the fall.false04/01/2021Kentucky colleges and universities have a new tool to see if graduates who move out of state are securing jobs and earning good wages – key factors in evaluating the success of an academic program. The interactive tool is called the Multi-State Postsecondary Report (MSPSR). false04/17/2020The Committee on Equal Opportunities presented results of its first comprehensive review of campus progress tied to the Kentucky Policy for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Council's June meeting. Travis Powell, vice president and general counsel, oversees the new work in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion. false03/22/2021The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) and GEAR UP Kentucky, a unit of CPE, are hosting a free statewide conference this month to help educators succeed in the post-pandemic environment. Called The Path Forward Forum, the event is an all-hands-on-deck effort to empower faculty, administrators and staff in the aftermath of COVID-19.false07/29/2020Kentucky colleges and universities are sounding an optimistic note as they prepare to kick off the fall semester with a mix of in-person and online instruction along with new measures to protect health and test students for COVID-19. Nearly all of Kentucky's public campuses expect to begin classes in mid- to late-August and end the semester by mid-December at the latest. false04/02/2020Within the second week of production, requests were pouring in from across the country – Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Washington, Oklahoma. Ed Tackett knew his team at the University of Louisville (UofL) had to scale up fast.false11/25/2020Gov. Andy Beshear has announced that Kentucky colleges and universities will avoid state budget cuts this fiscal year while also receiving $20 million in federal relief to help cover costs related to COVID-19. The allocation is part of $1.6 billion in federal funding that Kentucky received this year through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, known as CARES. false02/03/2021State lawmakers kicked off the remainder of the 2021 General Assembly this week with nearly a dozen bills related to higher education – and a new state budget – awaiting action in committee. Before legislators gaveled out last month, Gov. Andy Beshear unveiled a $12 billion budget proposal that would channel $17 million in additional funding to postsecondary institutions.false03/03/2021CPE and GEAR UP Kentucky, a unit of the Council, are throwing down the gauntlet on TikTok this month to help raise awareness about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA form. The two organizations have teamed up to announce the FAF$A for the Future TikTok Challenge. false07/06/2021Students have a new interactive tool to research degree programs at Kentucky's public colleges and universities, allowing them to compare tuition, student debt and salaries for hundreds of occupations before choosing a major. The tool, called the Kentucky Students' Right to Know website, offers extensive data on all of the state's public universities and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System.false04/09/2020When I was hired to lead Kentucky's public higher education system in 2018, I asked my staff to design a logo incorporating the words "Higher Education Matters." Armed with charts and graphs, I embarked on a statewide listening tour to share the benefits of a college credential and hear how higher education could better meet the needs of students, employers and communities.false04/01/2019When Dr. Aaron Thompson became the fourth president of the Council, he selected five main priorities for improving Kentucky's public higher education system that would result in better serving our students, workforce and economy.false09/07/2021Seeing families lifted out of poverty and other benefits of higher education is what motivates Lucas Mentzer to serve as CPE’s board chair. Read part one of our interview with him.false03/22/2021As students struggle to move past COVID-19, the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education and GEAR UP Kentucky are hosting a nationally recognized expert next month who will discuss strategies to help students recover "mental bandwidth."false08/21/2020Colby Birkes, a first-year student at the University of Louisville's Brandeis School of Law, was appointed to the Council on Postsecondary Education this summer. The Winchester native earned his bachelor's degree in political science and legal studies at Morehead State University, where he also served as president of the Student Government Association.false04/01/2019Ben Brandstetter of Hebron is the president of Brandstetter Carroll Inc., a national architectural and engineering firm. He has served on the Council as both a member and as chair.false08/01/2019Robert Staat is a faculty member at the University of Louisville, and has served on the Council and the Committee on Equal Opportunities.false05/13/2020With 15 years of executive leadership in data and analytics under his belt, David Mahan, Ph.D., came to CPE from Manhattan College in 2017. Since that time, he has led the enhancement of CPE's information presence by launching the state's postsecondary education interactive data center, which includes interactive tools that track campus and state progress on key metrics. false08/04/2021We sat down with Ilona Burdette, KYVL’s executive director, to discuss the role of libraries in providing access to online resources and internet connectivity during the pandemic.false09/29/2020Melissa Bell, vice president for academic affairs and student success at CPE, has served with the Council since 2006. She earned a bachelor's in history and political science at the former Cumberland College and a master's degree from the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce at the University of Kentucky. false08/01/2019Robert Croft, member of the Committee for Equal Opportunities, talks with Policy Insight about what motivates him to be part of the committee and his take on diversity initiatives.false04/01/2019Sherrill Zimmerman is a retired educator from Louisville where she was a teacher, assistant principal and a magnet program coordinator for Jefferson County Public Schools.false10/29/2020The 4 x 400 meter relay is one of the most difficult events in track and field, requiring speed, strategy and serendipity. It's not enough to be simply fast; you have to have the right four runners, in the right order, with perfectly timed handoffs.presidentpresidentfalse02/03/2021On Jan. 20, Kamala Harris, our first female, Black and Asian vice president, took the oath of office. As she laid her hand on the bible of Thurgood Marshall, she was surely thinking about this mentor and civil rights pioneer, who as a young lawyer successfully argued the case of Brown vs. Board of Education, which desegregated our nation's schools.presidentpresidentfalse12/04/2020With the help of Project Graduate, from his home in Arlington, Texas, Benjamin Scales started what he couldn't finish 30 years ago.false07/06/2021New research funded by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) shows that more and more Kentuckians are heading to college to earn short-term certificates, particularly in STEM-related fields, skilled trades and health care. In two studies released today, researchers found that the annual number of short-term certificates awarded in Kentucky soared by more than 110% between the 2005-06 and 2018-19 academic years.false06/02/2021Kyrin and Jaydan Norris, two sisters from Garrard County, Kentucky, had an important question for their fans on TikTok. "What happens to a student who works hard and fills out their FAFSA?" They never expected such a huge reaction.false04/01/2021The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education is offering grants of up to $100,000 for summer "bridge" programs that prepare students for college and help them return for a second year. CPE plans to distribute $1.5 million in grants before the end of June.false07/29/2020Aaron Thompson, president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, and Sue Patrick, the Council's chief communications officer, received top honors this year from the Thoroughbred Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. The announcement marks the first time that both awards have recognized leaders in a single organization.false09/07/2021Kentucky’s rate of progress is greater than most states when it comes to URM students, but we must do more to accelerate the progress to ensure low-income URM students don’t get left behind.presidentpresidentfalse02/03/2021As Kentucky moves forward on a massive effort to vaccinate against COVID-19, college faculty and staff rank relatively high in the distribution plan, and public universities are supporting the rollout with space and medical volunteers to help administer the shots. All personnel in higher education are classified as phase 1c along with other frontline essential workers as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.false08/04/2020A group of leaders from higher education and state government has launched the first major review of Kentucky's performance funding model for public colleges and universities. State law requires the Postsecondary Performance Funding Work Group to meet every three years – starting this summer – to determine if the state's funding model for higher education is working as expected. The group held its first meeting on Thursday.false01/07/2021As lieutenant governor, secretary of the Kentucky Education & Workforce Development Cabinet, educator, and mom, I believe every Kentuckian has the right to world-class education and high-quality job training. We must do better to provide all Kentuckians the opportunity of transformational change – to attain a meaningful career, support their families, break the cycle of poverty and prosper.false10/07/2021Chair Mentzer discusses how Kentucky is closing the gap in graduation rates faster than any state in the nation and the role of internships and apprenticeships in the future of higher ed. false10/07/2021Kentucky is in the midst of an alarming workforce shortage two decades in the making. CPE is unrolling several new initiatives this fall to address the complex issues driving the problem.presidentpresidentfalse10/07/2021Is higher education worth the cost? To find out, the Council tracked how Kentucky high schoolers from the Class of 2011 fared when it came to college completion and costs, employment, salaries and more.false10/07/2021Kentucky has embarked on a new initiative to create clearer pathways to gainful employment for graduates, especially for minority and low-income students.false10/07/2021Kentucky has felt the effects of the nationwide teacher shortage, especially among underrepresented minorities, and three universities get grants to tackle the issue. false10/07/2021After six months of meeting with constituents, the Continuum has developed recommendations for Kentucky's P20 system.continuumcontinuumfalse11/16/2021To reach the state’s goals for higher education, the system must meet the needs of every demographic of students. To that end, we’re closing achievement gaps with targeted supports for students and campuses and working to ensure KSU, our only public HBCU, thrives.presidentpresidentfalse11/08/2021GEAR UP Kentucky, CPE and KHEAA launched the GO!vember campaign earlier this month. The campaign engaged partners across the Commonwealth to promote resources on applying to college and financial aid.false10/25/2021The Kentucky Student Success Collaborative is the first statewide center in the country to link two- and four-year higher education institutions with policy and industry leaders to increase graduation rates, close equity gaps and strengthen workforce readiness.false11/05/2021The Council’s 2022-2024 biennial budget request for public colleges and universities includes funds for a 10% increase in operating funds for performance funding, pension relief for six institutions, and $700 million in capital investment for the repair and maintenance of state-owned campus buildings.false11/19/2021A new CPE brief shows the number of degrees and credentials awarded remained steady during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. false11/18/2021CPE has launched a new process to review and certify cultural competency credential programs offered by Kentucky colleges and universities. false09/30/2021CPE and Taiwan’s Department of International and Cross-strait Education announced a partnership to promote educational and academic exchanges between Taiwan and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.false09/27/2021The Commonwealth Education Continuum (CEC) released its recommendations for state policy leaders, government agencies, education membership organizations, school districts, and colleges and universities.false02/09/2022CPE unveiled the 2022-2030 state plan for higher education on Wednesday. Higher Education Matters: A Statewide Strategic Agenda for Kentucky Postsecondary Education serves as a blueprint to meet Kentucky’s educational attainment goal—to raise the percentage of Kentuckians with a postsecondary degree or certificate to 60% by the year 2030.false03/29/2021CPE announced 19 professionals from across the state will join the Academic Leadership Development Institute (ALDI) this year to prepare for influential roles in higher education.false11/29/2021Experts from colleges and universities across the state will work to ensure curricula include essential skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration and quantitative reasoning. false12/07/2021In 2021 we found innovative ways to demonstrate that higher education matters, that it has a positive return on investment and that it is key to the health of Kentucky’s economy—and the message is resonating. presidentpresidentfalse12/09/2021Read President Thompson's statement regarding the resignation of UofL President Neeli Bendapudi.false12/15/2021Following the tornado outbreak that ripped through Kentucky over the weekend, causing destruction and loss of life, the higher education community rallied to meet the needs of storm victims.false01/13/2022We are grateful to both Gov. Beshear and the House for confirming that now, more than ever, higher education matters.false01/19/2022CPE awarded its first cultural competency credential certification to Western Kentucky University’s Inclusive Teaching Academy on Jan. 19. The certification process reviews and certifies programs aimed at developing well-defined cultural competencies and remedying both personal and organizational biases.false01/24/2022CPE is offering grants of up to $200,000 for summer "bridge" programs focused on improving college preparation and retention.false01/21/2022The biennial budget passed in the House demonstrates Kentucky lawmakers’ continued dedication to higher education and workforce development in the commonwealth.false01/31/2022CPE approved two new academic programs at the University of Louisville and one at Northern Kentucky University at its meeting Friday.false02/01/2022State leaders gathered in Frankfort today to discuss their full support of the work of the Commonwealth Education Continuum, a multi-agency effort launched last year to improve Kentucky’s education to workforce pipeline.continuumcontinuumfalse03/03/2022The partnership between KYVL and the University Press of Kentucky gives K-12 libraries, college and university libraries and public libraries access to 1,300+ books.false03/04/2022Nimocks outlines the goals and values of Kentucky’s Strategic Agenda for Postsecondary Education and how it will guide us in achieving CPE’s vision for higher education in the commonwealth.  false03/04/2022One of the priorities in our new strategic agenda is restoring the public’s faith in the value of higher education. College has a positive return on investment, but you don’t need to take my word for it. As part of our new Higher Education Matters campaign to raise the public’s understanding of the value of higher education, alumni are sharing their personal stories of how higher education has changed their lives for the better. presidentpresidentfalse03/04/2022The new state plan for higher education serves as a blueprint to meet Kentucky’s 60x2030 educational attainment goal.false03/04/2022CPE launched a statewide public awareness campaign, Higher Education Matters, to elevate the public’s understanding that postsecondary education is key to greater opportunity and economic growth. false03/08/2022CPE announced today that 29 programs at 25 Kentucky colleges and universities will receive grants of up to $200,000 each, totaling $3.5 million, to support summer bridge programs focused on improving college preparation and retention.false03/10/2022President Thompson's statement on passage of the Senate budget during the 2022 legislative session.false03/22/2022One of the featured speakers at the 2022 Student Success Summit is SUNY chancellor emeritus Nancy Zimpher. We talk with Zimpher about the topic of "systemness" and what it means for Kentucky.false03/24/2022Don't forget to register now for the Council's annual Student Success Summit. This year's theme is Innovation through Collaboration.false04/15/2022CPE passed resolutions at their meeting, one commending the members of the Kentucky General Assembly and the other commending Gov. Andy Beshear for their service to postsecondary education in the commonwealth.false04/15/2022Statement from President Aaron Thompson on the legislature's historic investment in higher education in the 2023-24 biennial budget.false04/18/2022CPE took actions to address financial instability at Kentucky State University as specified in HB 250, enacted earlier this month.false04/18/2022Baptist Health announced Aaron Thompson, who also serves as chair of the Baptist Health System Board of Directors, is among the 2022 class of Modern Healthcare’s Excellence in Governance award.false05/03/2022The state’s landmark biennial budget, passed in April, makes the largest investment in higher education Kentucky has seen in decades. We broke down where the money is going, from performance funding to research support to building updates and new construction.false05/03/2022At its April 15 meeting, CPE took action to address financial instability at Kentucky State University as specified in HB 250. Topping the list was approval of KSU’s request for a disbursement of $17.5 million to address the current year budget shortfall. false05/02/2022The 2022 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly adjourned April 14, and CPE has been tracking the bills that impact postsecondary education. Read our quick guide to the legislation that will affect you. false05/03/2022The state biennial budget’s game-changing investment in our colleges and universities is a testament to the passion of advocates working behind the scenes to make the case for the value of higher education. Here at CPE, we’ve led that charge alongside our colleges and universities, partner organizations and state agencies. presidentpresidentfalse05/03/2022Student success is about more than enrollment numbers, graduation rates and GPAs—it requires going beyond academics to support the physical, emotional and logistical needs of students. That was the message a panel of college students delivered to educators gathered for the CPE’s Student Success Summit. false05/16/2022CPE is pleased to announce the launch of two podcasts—Higher Education Matters, featuring a wide range of topics both in higher education and its intersection with workforce development, and Well Advised, focused on timely advising topics for K-12 educators.false05/17/2022CPE announced the fourth cadre of its Academic Leadership Development Institute (ALDI) program, which aims to prepare minority faculty and staff members for leadership roles in Kentucky higher education.false05/26/2022According to a recent report by the UK Martin School and CPE, those with STEM, health care and skilled trades certificates see the highest earnings growth.false06/06/2022CPE announced 68 faculty and staff representing 20 colleges and universities across the commonwealth are participating in Bluegrass Tomorrow’s 2022 Academic Leadership Academy.false06/08/2022Rick W. Smith Sr., associate vice president of workforce and economic development, has been appointed to the Kentucky ACT Council.false06/10/2022CPE President Aaron Thompson shares his thoughts on why now is the time for Kentucky to take longer strides toward boosting educational attainment.presidentpresidentfalse06/17/2022The first of two GEAR UP Kentucky summer academies focused on preparing high schoolers for college success is underway this week at Eastern Kentucky University.false06/20/2022CPE gave final approval to campus proposals for tuition and mandatory fees, an average change of 1.5% for undergraduate tuition across the system, at its meeting.false06/23/2022New grant funding from CPE is helping public colleges and universities ensure their online course offerings are high-quality and prepare students for success. false06/22/2022Rick W. Smith Sr., associate vice president of workforce and economic development at the Kentucky Council for Postsecondary Education, is among the 51 members of the Leadership Kentucky Class of 2022.false06/30/2022Destiny O’Rourke, director of CPE’s Kentucky Advising Academy, talks about CPE's latest initiative aimed at providing professional development and networking opportunities for school counselors and all P-12 educators in postsecondary education advising roles.false06/30/2022If you ask most people to envision a college student, they’ll picture a young person fresh out of high school, living in a dorm room and attending class during the day to earn their four-year degree. But this narrow vision of who belongs in college is holding us back.false07/05/2022GEAR UP Kentucky Executive Director Kim Welch is set to join the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP) GEAR UP Advisory Commission for a three-year term false07/08/2022Kentucky school districts are encouraged to apply now for the program, which supports students’ postsecondary success, will launch in August. false07/15/2022At a news conference, CPE announced its Healthcare Workforce Collaborative, a new partnership with colleges and universities, state agencies, the healthcare industry and the K-12 education system to address Kentucky's critical healthcare workforce shortage. false07/26/2022CPE and KHEAA announced a new scholarship pilot program designed to support undergraduate students displaced by crises in their home countries.false08/03/2022Nine Kentucky colleges have identified strategies to increase degree completion rates and close equity gaps through an assessment process to identify areas of improvement as part of the Jobs for the Future (JFF) Network Demonstration Project.false08/15/2022As I share in the excitement of a new school year for campuses across the Commonwealth, my heart is with our friends and colleagues affected by the floods in Eastern Kentucky. I’m also inspired by how our colleges and universities have stepped up to help their fellow Kentuckians.presidentpresidentfalse08/18/2022Learn how the Commonwealth has made long-range gains in closing equity gaps, and how the state's institutions fared during the height of the pandemic.false08/23/2022CPE President Aaron Thompson will kick off a statewide tour this week to discuss workforce shortages and how to increase work-ready college graduates in the future to support business and industry, communities and regional economies.false08/25/2022CPE's Healthcare Workforce Collaborative distributed $8 million in grants to Kentucky’s public 2- and 4-year colleges and universities to help address the healthcare workforce shortage.false08/30/2022Arthur Levine, author, discusses the game-changing transformations coming to higher education and how colleges can successfully respond to them. Levine is the keynote speaker at this year's Postsecondary Education Trusteeship Conference.false09/07/2022Learn what President Thompson has heard so far during his conversations with local leaders, educators and the business community about ensuring our college graduates are work ready in Louisville, Elizabethtown and Brandenburg. presidentpresidentfalse09/16/2022State and national education organizations are coming together to launch a community of practice to support colleges serving students who have been displaced by crises in their home countries.false09/20/2022CPE approved two new academic programs for Eastern Kentucky University and the Kentucky resident rate of tuition for Kentucky Innovative Scholarship recipients at its meeting.false10/03/2022Working-age Kentuckians face barriers to completing a degree or credential; CPE has a new statewide action plan to remove these barriers.false10/12/2022Here at CPE, relationships are at the center of everything we do. Find out how we are collaborating with our P-12 educators, industry leaders and policymakers to improve graduation rates, build the workforce pipeline, close equity gaps and more.false10/27/2022According to the latest data from the CPE, Kentucky saw gains in dual credit, underrepresented minority student enrollment.false11/01/2022The Postsecondary Education Trusteeship Conference brought together 250 Kentucky higher education leaders for sessions on targeting adult learners, addressing student basic needs and ensuring equity in student success, among others. Check out the keynote speeches from Arthur Levine, distinguished scholar of higher education, and CPE President Aaron Thompson, plus panels featuring colleges presidents, legislators and more.false11/01/2022CPE approved a three-year management improvement plan for Kentucky State University to assist with the institution’s organizational and financial stability at a special-called meeting.false11/01/2022Kentucky high school students and their families will get some help navigating how to apply and pay for college with a new information campaign that runs through November.false10/24/2022CPE President Aaron Thompson delivered good news about progress toward increasing the number of Kentuckians with a college credential at a session of the NKYEC in October. false11/02/2022This week, we held a special-called Council on Postsecondary Education meeting where we approved the management and improvement plan for Kentucky State University. This plan is the result of many months of effort by my staff and our partners at KSU, but it is also just the beginning of our work. presidentpresidentfalse11/15/2022CPE, KDE and OneGoal announced that 13 Kentucky public school districts will participate in a statewide effort to receive postsecondary professional coaching at the school and district leadership levels to improve college readiness outcomes for students.false11/18/2022CPE President Aaron Thompson's remarks about the departure of NKU President Ashish Vaidya.false11/22/2022President Aaron Thompson previewed for the council the agency’s 2023 legislative priorities for higher education at its November meetingfalse12/05/2022Students from EKU, UofL and Morehead State have been selected to collect qualitative data on two- and four-year college students’ experiences across the commonwealth. false12/08/2022Kentucky's increases in six-year completion rates and community college completion rates rank second best in nation.false12/14/2022CPE has been awarded a newly established Catalyst Fund in recognition of its best practices regarding student transfer policy and processes.false01/11/2023Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., did not believe that education’s role was merely vocational. He also thought of it as a way to create self-actualized individuals who participate in and contribute to the larger culture and government. That distinction is more pertinent today than ever.presidentpresidentfalse01/18/2023CPE's Kentucky Student Success Collaborative has formed an action network to examine the scope of the problem in the commonwealth and identify ways to increase support so students don’t opt out of college.false01/19/2023A new report from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education shows that total degrees and credentials grew slightly in 2021-22, while bachelor’s degrees declined and graduate-level degrees made impressive gains.false01/27/2023CPE is offering grants of up to $55,000 to support colleges of education in implementing the Kentucky Reading Project for Read to Achieve, which focuses on primary students (K-3) reading at low levels and needing accelerated learning. false01/30/2023CPE elected Madison Silvert to serve as the 2023 chair and re-elected Eric Farris as vice chair at its meeting on Jan. 27.false02/01/2023Kentucky's public colleges and universities, along with institutions in the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities, are eligible to apply for grants to assist with summer bridge programs.false02/01/2023CPE announced a new unit in the agency focused on increasing public awareness of the value of higher education and strengthening partnerships with the business community and other key partners.false02/08/2023CPE is pleased to announce its involvement in a new national initiative known as Launch: Equitable and Accelerated Pathways for All. false02/09/2023Learn about CPE’s focus areas for 2023, which are guided by hundreds of hours of conversations with educators, state officials, students and business leaders as well as quantitative data on the state’s progress toward our education attainment goals.presidentpresidentfalse02/09/2023Many students face challenges accessing and completing a postsecondary credential due to affordability and living costs. During CPE’s Student Success Summit, Carrie Welton will help us explore how connecting students to public benefits complements existing higher education efforts to help students succeed.false02/13/2023Mary-Ann Winkelmes discusses transparency in learning and teaching, a simple framework for teachers, students and administrators that has equitably enhanced student success in many higher education contexts. false02/20/2023Higher education faculty, staff and administrators from across the commonwealth will convene Feb. 27-28 for the Council on Postsecondary Education's Student Success Summit. false02/23/2023CPE is emphasizing the importance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, to keeping college affordable for Kentuckians.false03/06/2023Twenty-one participants were chosen from Kentucky’s public universities and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System to participate in a leadership development program, aims to build the skills of early career, underrepresented minority faculty and staff.false03/07/2023The Council's stance on House Bill 542, which would require colleges and universities to allow concealed weapons to be carried on their campuses.false03/09/2023Campus presidents, provosts, deans, faculty, staff, board members and leaders from national foundations heard from keynote speakers and convened in small groups to discuss strategies to support student success last month on UK’s campus.false03/09/2023An astounding 76% of college students surveyed by Lumina in 2022 said they considered stopping college due to emotional stress. Find out what we are doing to battle the mental health crisis on campuses.presidentpresidentfalse03/13/2023CPE’s Statewide Vision for Transfer Student Success outlines strategies to make the transfer experience between Kentucky higher education institutions more transparent and efficient. false03/13/2023CPE announced the third round of funding for summer bridge programs at Kentucky colleges and universities. Twenty-three campuses will receive grants of up to $50,000 focused on improving college preparation and retention of students.false03/14/2023CPE has released the Degrees by Program report, which shows that undergraduate credentials in the trades, computer science, and healthcare are growing in the state.false03/27/2023KAA launched a first-of-its-kind online resource for postsecondary advisors. The College and Career Advising Toolkit is a comprehensive collection of tools, information and resources, which will serve as a hub for advisors across the commonwealth.false03/31/2023CPE approved tuition and mandatory fee ceilings at public colleges and universities for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years at its March meeting.false04/05/2023Twelve Kentucky high school students were recognized outstanding GUK students who consistently demonstrate positive leadership at school, in GEAR UP activities and amongst their peersfalse04/11/2023Student loans now comprise the largest chunk of U.S. non-housing debt. Learn what the Council is doing to make college more affordable.presidentpresidentfalse04/11/2023Dual credit participation in Kentucky is growing by leaps and bounds, but more can be done. Learn about the Council’s new Dual Credit Attainment Goal and the policy changes to make this program more effective.false04/13/2023President Aaron Thompson has received the 2023 Lucy Harth Smith-Atwood S. Wilson Award for Civil and Human Rights in Education from the Kentucky Education Association.false04/18/2023Register now to learn about the new toolkit that provides information about dual credit and other early postsecondary programs, state policy and the new dual credit attainment goal.false04/24/2023CPE is pleased to announce that 65 faculty and staff representing 18 colleges and universities are participating in Bluegrass Tomorrow’s Academic Leadership Academy (ALA)falsetrue05/04/2023Kentucky is making great strides in expanding dual credit participation. CPE’s President discusses how far we’ve come and where CPE plans to go in his latest message.presidentpresidentfalse05/04/2023Kentucky has a dual credit attainment goal – now what? National dual credit expert Alex Perry discusses the state’s challenges, successes and suggested next steps for its dual credit programs.false05/04/2023After a year in the field training advisors and counselors, Kentucky Advising Academy’s director Mitzi Holland shares what she and her staff have learned about the needs of those providing college and career advising.false06/09/2023CPE approved tuition and mandatory fee proposals submitted by Eastern Kentucky University, Murray State University and Western Kentucky University for the 2023-24 academic year.false07/24/2023CPE report findings assist Student Basic Needs Action Network to facilitate food and housing solutions for students with low incomes.false09/12/2023If you or your child headed off to campus this fall, you're probably worried whether college will be worth the cost. The data tell a different story. false09/19/2023CPE approved the 2024-2026 biennial budget recommendation, which includes operating funds and capital investment requests for state colleges and universities and a budget request for the agencyfalse09/22/2023College graduation and retention rates are on the rise in Kentucky, and graduate degree production increased 9.8%, according to the 2023 Progress Report from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education. false10/11/2023Sen. Robert Stivers, Rep. Ken Fleming and CFHS Secretary Eric Friedlander were recipients of CPE's Innovative Healthcare Leader awards as part of the Council's inaugural Healthcare Workforce Collaboratory.false11/01/2023CPE's GO!vember information campaign will feature a Facebook Live event, The Parent/Guardian’s QuickStart Guide to Education After High School, at 6:30 p.m. ET on Nov. 16. false11/20/2023At its November business meeting, the CPE board approved the recommendations in the agency's postsecondary feasibility study, which was developed in response to Senate Joint Resolution 98 (SJR98).false11/29/2023Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) and the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) recently released the Kentucky Innovative Scholarship Pilot Program annual report for 2022-23.false12/01/2023The Kentucky Advising Academy is accepting proposals from Kentucky K12 schools and career tech centers for grants centered around postsecondary advising.false12/04/2023GEAR UP Kentucky and the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) will be conducting a public service awareness campaign to prepare students for the new FAFSA form and processes that will launch on Dec. 31, 2023.false12/13/2023The Council on Postsecondary Education is aware of the warning issued to Kentucky State University by its regional accreditor, SACSCOC. false12/13/2023CPE received CCA's highest honor, the Stan Jones Legacy Award at Future Ready, CCA’s 2023 annual convening in Las Vegas.false12/18/2023The Kentucky Student Success Collaborative has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from ECMC Foundation to address issues such as childcare and food/housing insecurity.false12/22/2023CPE is grateful to the Governor for his proposed budget for higher education.false12/22/2023Dr. Muhammad Babar, Council member and an attending physician at St. Mary and Elizabeth Hospital and the medical director at six other healthcare and rehab centers, is one of 18 members of the task force appointed by Gov. Andy Beshear.false01/04/2024Recently released data from the National Student Clearinghouse indicate Kentucky had the highest fall-to-fall total enrollment gains in the nation this year.false01/19/2024false02/08/2024KAA recently awarded mini-grants reimbursable up to $5,000 to 17 Kentucky K-12 public schools and area technology centers to support postsecondary readiness advising.false02/23/2024CPE is accepting proposals from Kentucky public and AIKCU institutions for seed grants to support summer bridge programs.false02/26/2024The JED Foundation announced a new initiative aims to protect emotional health, prevent suicide and strengthen connectedness across select Kentucky college campuses and communities statewide.false02/27/2024Three Kentucky campuses, two government agencies and one philanthropic organization were recipients of awards at the Council's 2024 Kentucky Student Success Summit.false02/29/2024CPE one of just seven organizations awarded in national competition to transform how students get into college.false03/05/2024CPE's President Aaron Thompson received the Betty and David Jones, Sr. Legacy Award from Simmons College of Kentucky during its Transform Louisville breakfast at Louisville Central Community Center.false03/25/2024Learn about CPE's intern Palmer McNeal and her work for the workforce development unit.false04/01/2024The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) heard promising news about enrollment and credential production during its business meeting on March 28 in Frankfort.false04/11/2024CPE received the National Association of Higher Education Systems (NASH) Scaling for Change Award for its work developing the nation’s first statewide scholarship for displaced individuals.false04/12/2024CPE will host the 2024 Career Ladders in Mental and Behavioral Health (CLIMB-Health) Convening on May 14 at The Campbell House in Lexington, Kentucky. false04/22/2024GEAR UP Kentucky (GUK) recognized its students and outstanding educators of the year during the GEAR UP Kentucky Institute for a College-Going Culture.false04/25/2024CPE is collaborating with Ithaka S+R, a non-profit educational research and consulting organization, to identify and reduce barriers that prevent adults from completing a postsecondary educationfalse05/01/2024CPE president Dr. Aaron Thompson recently received the Wendell Thomas Award from the Kentucky Association of Blacks in Higher Education (KABHE) at their recent annual conference.false05/14/2024According to a new CPE report more students are completing an undergraduate credential debt free, and of those with debt, amounts have declined. false05/30/2024To help ensure students can successfully submit a FAFSA and begin college in the fall confident in the amount of funding they will receive, GUK and KHEAA are partnering throughout the month of June to provide FAFSA completion and financial aid assistance.false06/24/2024CPE approved tuition and mandatory fee proposals submitted by six public universities and KCTCS for the 2024-25 academic year.false06/27/2024Kentucky’s public colleges and universities made significant gains in undergraduate enrollment and retention, according to the Council’s latest progress report.false07/01/2024CPE and its affiliate, the Kentucky Student Success Collaborative (KYSSC), are hosting the inaugural Leadership exChange cohort beginning in September.false07/02/2024CPE has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for healthcare training partnerships to compete for matching funds to support scholarships for students pursuing credentials in high-demand healthcare fieldsfalse07/17/2024Dr. Aaron Thompson was awarded the 2024 Exceptional Leader Award from the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO) in Washington, D.C. false09/16/2024At its September business meeting, the CPE heard a presentation from the University of Louisville on its progress toward key performance targets.false10/02/2024Mike Krause, from the John M Belk Endowment, has over 15 years’ experience increasing educational attainment of adults. CPE communications sat down with Krause to discuss his research and work around adult learners.false10/03/2024The state’s public K-12 districts will receive free Kentucky Virtual Library (KYVL) memberships for the 2024-25 school year;false10/30/2024CPE awarded $11.8 million in matching dollars to 33 eligible postsecondary healthcare programs offered by 19 education and training providers.false11/25/2024At its meeting, CPE announced a 3.9 percent increase in undergraduate enrollment at Kentucky public universities and a 4.9 percent increase in community and technical college enrollment for the 2024 fall semester.false12/03/2024CPE and GEAR UP Kentucky (GUK) have launched the I’m In! College Acceptance Video Challenge.false01/08/2025Twelve colleges and universities received grants to hold summer residential programs on campus focused on healthcare-related fields.false01/09/2025Kentucky has increased its six-year postsecondary completion rate by 2.8 percentage points, from 59.4% to 62.2%, according to a recent National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) Research Center report. false01/13/2025In advance of CPE’s 2025 Student Success Summit, communications staff sat down with President Aaron Thompson to discuss the learning landscape for higher education.false01/31/2025Total degrees and credentials awarded by public and private institutions in 2023-24 increased 6.4% over the previous year, according to a report presented to the CPE board.false02/04/2025Kentuckians now have a one-stop-shop for finding answers on career and education questions.false02/10/2025A new report finds tax revenue generated from Kentucky college graduates is four-and-a-half times greater than the state’s initial investment in their degrees.false02/12/2025Transformational leadership awards were presented to Bellarmine University, Eastern Kentucky University, Gateway Community and Technical College, Maysville Community and Technical College, Northern Kentucky University and the University of Louisville.false02/18/2025From fall 2023 to fall 2024, Kentucky experienced strong growth in undergraduate enrollment, rebounding above pre-pandemic levels.false02/25/2025With just over half of Kentucky’s high school graduates going directly to college, CPE's KAA has developed new tools to help students explore college and career options as early as middle school.false02/27/2025Kentucky’s public and private colleges and universities conferred a total of 89,313 degrees and credentials in academic year (AY) 2023-24, up 6.4 percent from the previous year.false03/06/2025Sixteen faculty and professional staff members from public universities and community and technical colleges across Kentucky were selected to participate in the 2025 ALDI cohort.false03/13/2025KYSSC, an initiative of CPE, recently released a statewide strategy in consultation with JED to address growing mental health challenges on Kentucky campuses. false03/27/2025According to a new CPE report, the average student loan balance of public two- and four-year graduates has fallen 32.9% over the last five years.false04/01/2025The KYSSC has launched a year-long initiative to encourage colleges and universities to award academic credit for knowledge gained through work, military or life experiences.false04/07/2025The percentage of working-age Kentuckians with a postsecondary certificate or degree has risen to 56.2 percent, according to a CPE analysis.false04/10/2025CPE received a $488,676 grant from Kentucky’s Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission to fund Collegiate Recovery Resource Centers (CRRCs) on up to five college campuses.false04/17/2025At its annual institute, GEAR UP Kentucky recognized 12 students and 12 faculty for their accomplishments.false04/18/2025CPE's board approved a recommendation to limit increases in undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees for resident students in 2025-26 and 2026-27false04/25/2025Dr. Aaron Thompson, CPE president, received a 2025 EKLF leadership award for Eastern Kentucky natives whose public service contributes to the betterment of the region.false04/30/2025A new issue brief by Ithaka S+R explores why an estimated 557,000 Kentuckians with some college credit but no degree have not re-enrolled in postsecondary education. false05/01/2025On May 1, the Commonwealth of Kentucky proudly recognized #GEARUPworks Day, as officially proclaimed by Governor Andy Beshear, in celebration of 25 years of GEAR UP’s impact.false05/14/2025Six Kentucky K-12 public high schools and area technology centers were named the recipients of grants to support postsecondary readiness advising. false05/15/2025In celebration of 25 years of student success through the GEAR UP program, the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) has launched the new “I’m IN!” public service announcement (PSA), featuring Kentucky high school seniors.false05/23/2025Dr. Aaron Thompson was inducted into the Junior Achievement Bluegrass Business Hall of Fame on May 22 at Keeneland Race Track. Business Hall of Fame laureates are recognized for their career achievements, community service and being a role model for young people.false05/28/2025Kentuckians now have a new way to learn about the emerging high-demand careers within the Commonwealth’s aerospace and aviation industry. Futuriti.org, the state’s career exploration website.false06/13/2025CPE approved a recommendation to raise undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees for resident students at EKU, Murray State and WKU by $420 for the 2025-26 school year.false06/16/2025Public colleges and universities made significant gains in undergraduate enrollment and graduation rates, according to CPE's latest progress report.false06/18/2025CPE has appointed six new members to Kentucky’s Dual Credit Advisory Council.false06/24/2025Kentucky was one of five states selected by SHEEO to participate in a one-year learning community to expand postsecondary opportunities for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system.false07/09/2025According to the NSC, Kentucky’s one-year gains in undergraduate persistence and retention were the highest in the nation from 2023 to 2024.false07/11/2025Dr. Aaron Thompson, President of the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), received the James Bryant Conant Award from ECS at the 2025 National Forum on Education Policy convening last evening. false07/22/2025Sister Judith Nell Riney, the recently retired director of library services at Brescia University, is this year’s winner of KYVL's Sheree Award.false07/24/2025CPE has awarded $4.3M to 28 postsecondary healthcare programs across Kentucky to provide training scholarships to over 200 Kentucky resident students.false07/28/2025Dr. Joshua Sparks, an alumnus of GEAR UP Kentucky and the 2006 class of Elliott County High School, was named the 2025 GEAR UP Alum Leader of the Year by NCCEP.false07/29/2025CPE in partnership with the Department for Community-Based Services (DCBS) and a consortium of postsecondary institutions, kicked off the Community Learning Network .false08/11/2025CPE, in partnership with the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission (KYOAAC), awarded grants to five postsecondary institutions to support collegiate recovery resource centers (CRRCs).false09/08/2025The Kentucky Student Success Collaborative, an initiative of the CPE, selected over 30 campus representatives to participate in its 2025-26 Leadership exChange program. false09/09/2025CPE invited 29 faculty members from the state’s public colleges and universities to participate in a year-long leadership academy.false09/12/2025The CPE board approved the public postsecondary biennial budget request for fiscal years 2026-27 and 2027-28, which includes requested increases in state funding to support general postsecondary operations. false09/15/2025The KYSSC recently awarded five $60,000 planning grants to public colleges and universities to increase support for undergraduate students who are parents.false09/25/2025The KYSSC, an initiative of CPE, recently released a statewide plan to redesign some aspects of the college admissions process. false10/02/2025CPE has announced the 2025 membership of the Kentucky Faculty Advisory Network (KFAN).false10/07/2025CPE was one of eight states awarded a highly competitive seven-year, $35 million GEAR UP grant from the U.S. Department of Education. false10/08/2025CPE is excited to welcome our newest intern Anushka Karki! Anushka is currently attending Northern Kentucky University.false10/09/2025Meet Patricia Juarbe Rivera, one of our new interns! Originally from Puerto Rico, Patricia attends the University of Kentucky.false10/22/2025Meet Shayla Thompson, a co-op working in the human resources department for the 2025-2026 school year. false11/07/2025CPE's board reviewed the statewide implementation plan for the Kentucky Graduate Profile during its business meeting.false10/28/2025CPE, in partnership with CHFS and its Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, has launched an initiative to provide career pathways to high school students in select schools who are interested in behavioral health careers.false10/29/2025Meet Maddax Gortney, one of our new interns in the Workforce and Economic Development Unit! Maddax currently attends the University of Kentucky.false10/31/2025Kentucky students and families will get help exploring their options for education after high school through GO!vember, a month-long information campaign highlighting the why, how, and where of postsecondary education and training.false11/05/2025Meet Anna Luu, one of our new interns in the Workforce and Economic Development Unit! Anna currently attends the University of Kentucky.false11/07/2025Overall, total degrees and credentials in 2024-25 were up 5% from the previous academic year and 15.1% since 2019-20, which includes undergraduate and graduate awards at both public and private institutions.false11/10/2025CPE is happy to announce the arrival of our first Skillbridge intern, Connor Darby! Skillbridge is a workforce preparation program offered through the U.S. Department of Defense.false11/11/2025CPE has been formally approved by the U.S. Department of Defense as an official SkillBridge employer.false12/04/2025Meet Annalee Whitten, one of our new interns in the Student Access & Success Unit.false12/09/2025Enrollment in health-related majors across all public and private colleges and universities has increased 22.8% - or by 6,953 students - since 2022.false11/10/2025CPE welcomed Jai Bokey, Dennis Repenning and Michael Wheeler at its meeting in Owensboro last week.false12/12/2025Meet Katie Black, one of our new interns in the Data and Advanced Analytics Unit! Katie currently attends Marshall University.false12/03/2025KYSSC, an initiative of CPE, is partnering with UK to better understand why some community college graduates stop short of earning a bachelor’s degree.false12/11/2025CPE recognized recipients of the fourth and final round of Healthcare Workforce Investment Fund (HWIF) grants.false01/14/2026Jan Goldman currently serves as executive director of the Kentucky Community Learning Network(KCLN) - learn about this program that helps recruit and prepare students for public service careers.false01/21/2026From advising underserved students to strengthening postsecondary pathways, Jacob Fraire, president of ECMC Foundation, shares his strategies for student success.false01/29/2026Six out of 10 Kentucky undergraduate students are now graduating debt-free, according to a new report by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE). This is up from 2019-20, when four out of 10 students were graduating debt-free. false01/30/2026CPE approved a new doctoral program in veterinary medicine at Murray State University. Once accredited, Murray will be the first veterinary program offered at a Kentucky public university.false02/23/2026From Fall 2024 to Fall 2025, Kentucky continued its strong enrollment growth after the pandemic. false03/05/2026Futuriti's new home page allows visitors to select who they are to narrow down what they’re looking for on the site.continuumpresident20192020202120222023202420252026