Tennessee – The Tennessee Higher Education Commission released its first report on Navigate Reconnect, a program helping adults over 25 pursue higher education. Participants working with “Navigators” were 11 percentage points more likely to stay in school or complete a credential than those without assistance.

The program offers free academic coaching, financial aid guidance, and access to resources like childcare and transportation.

Key findings:
– **Demographics:** Most participants were female, aged 33, and from lower-income households. Over half were first-generation college students.
– **Enrollment:** 33%-43% enrolled within a year, with most attending community colleges.
– **Persistence:** 55% of community college participants stayed enrolled or completed credentials within two years, compared to 44% of peers.
– **Employment:** 78% were employed, 13 percentage points higher than other nontraditional students.

Navigate Reconnect demonstrates a broad impact, improving persistence and completion rates across diverse demographics.