[Rockland County] August 3, 2023 — Rockland Community College (RCC) in Suffern, New York, is proud to announce its collaboration with ReUp Education, a recognized leader in engaging and supporting adult learners. This strategic partnership aims to expand opportunities by empowering individuals to enroll and graduate as they pursue economic and social mobility in today’s dynamic economy. Leveraging ReUp’s expertise, cutting-edge technology, and personalized one-on-one coaching, RCC is determined to bridge the completion gap and ensure the success of its diverse student population.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 35 percent of learners are over the age of 25 as of 2020. However, adult learners often face unique barriers that hinder their completion rates compared to younger peers. Challenges such as time constraints, childcare responsibilities, and financial limitations can impede their progress. RCC recognizes the immense impact that completing a college degree has on social and economic mobility, leading to lower unemployment rates and increased levels of happiness, health, and community engagement.

Since 2015, ReUp Education has been dedicated to supporting higher education institutions in engaging, enrolling, and empowering adult learners. Through its patented technology and personalized coaching services, ReUp is poised to assist RCC in re-engaging learners who have paused their educational journey. This partnership will offer RCC’s adult learners specialized and holistic support tailored to their individual circumstances and aspirations for earning their degree.

Brian Sondey, RCC’s Executive Director of Enrollment Services, expressed his commitment to providing accessible education and fostering social mobility for a diverse student population. Brian stated, “In partnering with ReUp, we are supporting those members of our student body who may have experienced roadblocks on the way and are now ready to continue their education and obtain a degree.”

As part of the partnership, ReUp will share its expertise in adult learner insights with RCC, offering valuable data-driven recommendations and strategic advice based on industry trends and learner feedback. The goal is to enhance the support and resources available to adult learners, empowering them to overcome obstacles and thrive in higher education.

Terah Crews, CEO of ReUp and a former adult learner, emphasized the significance of addressing the challenges adult learners encounter during their educational journey. Crews stated, “Through our new partnership with RCC, we are helping expand the support and resources available for adult learners, in turn helping to make the rollercoaster ride of higher education just a little less turbulent.”

RCC and ReUp Education share a common vision of empowering adult learners and ensuring their success. Together, they aspire to make a lasting impact on countless lives, enabling adult learners to achieve their educational dreams and unlock their full potential. For more information about ReUp Education, please visit https://reupeducation.com.

About Rockland Community College, State University of New York
Rockland Community College (RCC), located in Suffern New York, provides purpose-driven educational opportunities in a supportive, affordable, and accessible environment, empowering individuals to positively transform themselves and their communities. RCC welcomes students from diverse backgrounds who appreciate small class sizes and personal attention from a distinguished, award-winning faculty that includes Fulbright scholars and SUNY Distinguished Professors. Many graduates go on to top universities to further their education on their own or through RCCs institutional collaborations. RCC is also proud to provide career training and professional development to adult learners looking to change careers or upgrade their skills through a variety of programs and educational opportunities including workforce training, certifications, and microcredentials. Many of the programs are developed with employers in the community in high demand industry areas to enable graduates to move into a new career upon graduation. More information can be found at sunyrockland.edu.

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