By By Deba Uwadiae & Okon Ekpenyong
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) Chancellor Mike Duffey have announced a $50 million federal Talent Search Grant awarded to Ohio.
Ohio will receive $10 million per year for five years to support 20,000 low-income and first-generation college students annually across 130 schools.
Among all applicants, Ohio stands alone as the largest award winner – and the only new state to be awarded a grant.
Governor DeWine made the announcement as part of his remarks during ODHE’s annual Trustees Conference.
“This grant gives us another opportunity to help Ohio students see what is possible for their future,” said Governor DeWine.
“Every student should have the chance to pursue a college education, an apprenticeship, or other training that leads to a good-paying job. By putting advisors in our schools and connecting students with the resources they need, we will help more young Ohioans overcome barriers to building a successful future so they can reach their full potential.”
“Our focus, echoed in Governor DeWine’s inaugural address in 2019, has been to give every Ohioan, no matter where they were born or who their parents are, the chance to get a good-paying job, raise a family, and be secure in their future,” said Chancellor Mike Duffey.
“This award, as Secretary McMahon has pledged to do, delivers on ‘returning education to the states.’ It puts federal dollars in the State of Ohio’s hands to help 20,000 students per year. We are excited to lead the way, and to set an example for other states to follow.”
The proposal submitted as part of ODHE’s grant application included partnerships with several higher education organizations statewide, including College Now, ESC of Central Ohio, Sinclair Community College, Toledo Tomorrow, the GRIT (Growing Rural Independence Together) Project, Junior Achievement, and the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative.
These organizations will embed advisors within middle and high schools who will connect students to a variety of supportive resources such as tutoring, career exploration, college application assistance, and apprenticeships.
The goal of the federal Talent Search program is to increase the number of children from disadvantaged backgrounds who earn a high school diploma, enroll in college, and complete their postsecondary education. In addition to providing academic, career, and financial counseling, the program assists participants with the college application process and publicizes available opportunities for financial aid.
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