At College Possible Omaha, we’ve always been committed to helping students unlock their full potential. For 14 years, that commitment was brought to life by AmeriCorps members who served as coaches and champions for the students in our program. Their service has been essential to our impact, and we’re deeply grateful for the care, passion, and dedication they brought to their roles.
This summer, we began a new chapter in our work by transitioning to a full-time advising specialist model. This shift allows us to strengthen the consistency of our support, deepen our relationships with students, and position our site for long-term sustainability.
“We truly appreciate the dedication shown by AmeriCorps service members who helped support College Possible Omaha students in pursuing their collegiate aspirations,” says Melissa Robinson, executive director. “Moving into the new model that has already been piloted at other sites, we know to expect greater consistency across schools and programs, expanded capacity to serve more students at a deeper level, improved outcomes, and increased stability. Yet, as we move forward with the new model, we retain our commitment to establishing and maintaining relatable connections to students participating in our program. It is the human connection that makes all the difference.”
Why We’re Evolving
This transition was a proactive decision made with students at the center. While national AmeriCorps funding has become less predictable, our priority remains clear: deliver consistent, high-quality coaching that supports students at every stage of their college journey.
Before shifting the Access (high school) program, we had already planned to launch our Success (college) program this fall with full-time staff. Moving forward with both programs under one cohesive model allows us to provide even stronger support across the board.
“We’re so excited about Omaha’s transition to a full-time advising specialist model,” says Aminatu Issaka, senior director of programs. “Now, change can be scary and at the same time necessary for the continued success of the students we serve. This new approach ensures students receive uninterrupted service, tailored expertise, and dedicated support throughout their entire college journey. It’s a major transformative shift, and I’m confident it will empower more students to achieve their academic and professional goals.”
What This Change Makes Possible
The full-time model gives our team more flexibility, reliability, and the ability to plan ahead with confidence. It also creates a more stable experience for the students and families we serve. With this shift, we’re able to:
- Provide year-round support from trained, experienced advisors
- Reach more students and strengthen program delivery
- Improve continuity for schools and partners
- Integrate new tools, including AI-enabled coaching system
- Reduce dependence on external recruitment cycles
Our advising specialists bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to their roles. Some are former AmeriCorps members, others previously served in varying leadership roles, and some are College Possible alumni or new to the organization. Together, they combine institutional knowledge with fresh insight, all united by a shared commitment to student success.
You can meet the team through our Meet the Advising Specialists series on our social media platforms:
Honoring Our Legacy, Advancing Our Mission
We will always honor the impact of AmeriCorps service members in our community. Their contributions helped shape College Possible Omaha, and we are proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
This new chapter builds on that legacy while allowing us to continue growing and adapting. Our mission hasn’t changed. We’re here to help students from low-income backgrounds get to and through college—and now we’re better equipped than ever to do that work with consistency, care, and long-term impact.
We’re proud of where we’ve been and excited for what’s ahead.
