Beyond the Diploma: How Wraparound Support is Reshaping Community College Success
For decades, community colleges have been touted as engines of social mobility, offering accessible pathways to higher education and better careers. But simply opening the doors isn’t enough. A growing body of research, and the lived experiences of students like Tiara Davis at Kennedy-King College in Chicago, demonstrate that comprehensive support systems – often called “wraparound supports” – are critical to unlocking the full potential of these institutions.
The Power of Personalized Support
Tiara Davis’s story is a powerful illustration. Returning to school as a mother of three, she initially aimed to simply “keep her head down and get her degree.” However, a connection with a coordinator from One Million Degrees (OMD) changed her trajectory. OMD provided resources and encouragement, helping her navigate challenges like grief and childcare, ultimately leading her to pursue a bachelor’s degree – a goal initially beyond her plans.
This isn’t an isolated case. A recent University of Chicago Inclusive Economy Lab study found that students participating in OMD are 63% more likely to earn any kind of degree within eight years, compared to 55% of their peers without the same support. Participants similarly saw an average annual income increase of around $14,000 seven years after starting the program.
Addressing Systemic Barriers
The success of programs like OMD highlights a fundamental truth: many community college students face significant barriers to completion. These students are often first-generation college attendees and come from low-income backgrounds, juggling function, family responsibilities, and financial insecurity. Simply providing tuition assistance isn’t enough to address these complex needs.
Kelly Hallberg, scientific director for the Inclusive Economy Lab, explains that the most significant impact comes from supporting students who were initially unsure about attending college. “It’s basically taking a potential non-college student and making them not only a college student, but a college student that’s more likely to complete,” she said.
The Evolving Landscape of Student Support
The focus on wraparound services is prompting a shift in how community colleges operate. Increasingly, institutions are partnering with non-profit organizations like OMD to deliver targeted support. This collaborative approach allows colleges to leverage external expertise and resources, expanding their reach and impact.
The benefits extend beyond degree completion and earnings. The University of Chicago study also found that OMD participants were more likely to secure stable employment, particularly those who engaged with the program whereas still in high school. This suggests that early intervention is key to long-term success.
Looking Ahead: Scaling Support and Measuring Impact
While the evidence supporting wraparound services is compelling, challenges remain. Scaling these programs to reach more students requires sustained funding and a commitment to data-driven decision-making. Ongoing research, like the continuing work of the Inclusive Economy Lab, is crucial for refining support models and maximizing their effectiveness.
The future of community college success isn’t just about access; it’s about ensuring that every student has the resources and support they need to thrive. As Tiara Davis’s experience demonstrates, a little support can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are “wraparound supports”?
- Wraparound supports are comprehensive services designed to address the non-academic barriers that students face, such as financial hardship, childcare needs, and emotional well-being.
- Who benefits most from these programs?
- First-generation college students and those from low-income backgrounds often benefit the most, as they are more likely to encounter systemic obstacles to completion.
- How do these programs impact student outcomes?
- Studies show that students who receive wraparound support are more likely to earn a degree, secure stable employment, and experience higher earnings.
- What role do non-profit organizations play?
- Non-profits often partner with community colleges to provide specialized support services and resources that the colleges may not have in-house.
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