Southwest Tennessee Educational Pathways (STEP)
The Ayers Foundation and Oasis Center were invited by the Southwest Tennessee Development District (SWTDD) and the Haywood, Tipton Lauderdale region (HTL) to conduct an analysis on the college access environment in the Southwest Tennessee region and develop a college access strategy designed to improve the college-going rates in the region. This request came in response to an initial meeting between representatives of SWTDD/HTL and representatives of both Ayers and Oasis. The participants at this meeting demonstrated significant commitment to college access services as a means to improve college-going rates and enhance both economic development and workforce development initiatives. A particular emphasis was placed on eventually providing a free community college or technical college education through the development of a last dollar scholarship designed to cover the difference between cost and financial aid received by individuals. The meeting ended with a desire to consider next steps to review the needs, identify gaps in service, and consider programs to expand higher education opportunities.