Last month, College Possible Wisconsin hosted Homecoming: Education Access in Action, an evening dedicated to honoring community, mission and the evolving future of higher education.
The event brought together educators, partners, donors and advocates united by a shared belief that every student deserves the opportunity and support to achieve their college, career and life goals.
The evening featured thought-provoking insights from two of Wisconsin’s higher education leaders. Marc Young, executive director of undergraduate admissions at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, emphasized that lasting change begins with student-centered education and by creating environments where every learner feels seen, supported and empowered to belong.
Dr. Janay Alston-Burnett, dean of student success and retention at Milwaukee Area Technical College, called for building systems rooted in individualized support that ensure students not only enter college, but also graduate and thrive.
The program also marked a moment of new beginnings, as Lauren McDuffie was introduced as College Possible Wisconsin’s new program director. McDuffie’s leadership will strengthen the organization’s evidence-based coaching model, expanding its reach and deepening its impact across the state.
Lauren’s transition into the role comes at a critical moment. FAFSA completion rates of Wisconsin students from low-income backgrounds plummeted in 2024, and according to the Wisconsin Policy Forum, just 15% of Milwaukee graduates earn a degree within six years. Nationally, college enrollment rates are falling. A degree remains the surest path to economic mobility, worth more than $1.2 million in additional lifetime earnings (APLU). College Possible’s work directly addresses this gap, helping students turn potential into possibility and degrees into lasting generational change.
“As the education landscape evolves, College Possible remains a driving force,” says Marco Morrison, executive director of College Possible Wisconsin. “Our mission is clear: to lead with purpose, adapt with intention, and ensure that every student has access to the opportunities, guidance and belief they need to succeed.”
Since 2008, College Possible Wisconsin has worked to close the degree divide for students from low-income and first-generation communities through intensive coaching and support from high school to college graduation. Our evidence-based model has empowered thousands of Wisconsin students to earn degrees, launch meaningful careers, and unlock opportunities that create lasting, generational impact.
Education in Action was more than a celebration, it was a reaffirmation of purpose. The work continues, the vision grows and the call to action is clear: when students succeed, entire communities rise.
