College was one of five grant recipients

Glen Oaks Community College (GOCC) was recently awarded a $5,000 grant to further support student parents. The college was one of five recipients of the grant, which was made possible by New America.

The funds will go toward research efforts aimed at identifying and overcoming student parents’ obstacles in pursuing higher education, according to an announcement from the college. The initiative will focus on public community colleges that are interested in enhancing or establishing childcare support services, including on-campus childcare centers, partnerships with community childcare providers, Head Start sites, drop-in childcare services, and more.

“Glen Oaks Community College is honored to be selected by New America for this important initiative,” said Tonya Howden, Vice President of Student Services at GOCC. “This grant will significantly contribute to our ongoing efforts to support student parents by reducing childcare barriers and enabling them to achieve their educational goals. We are committed to making higher education accessible to all students, including providing the necessary support systems for parents.”

The college plans to use the funds for virtual interviews with key stakeholders, peer learning with experts, and other events that focus on student wellness and childcare.

For more information about Glen Oaks Community College and its initiatives to support student parents, please contact Tonya Howden, Vice President of Student Services, at [email protected].