Southeast Missouri State University and The Wyman Center signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create more support for Wyman students on SEMO’s campus. Both institutions encourage the pursuit of post-secondary education and student success. This partnership expansion will allow them to support even more students with dedicated SEMO staff to help guide them through their college career.
Wyman’s mission is to connect teens to their voices, their strengths, and their futures through proven programs and supports. Wyman holds a core belief that every young person deserves quality educational and life experiences, unencumbered by economic and systemic barriers. The partnership between SEMO and Wyman supports college access and degree completion for Wyman students. SEMO will provide Wyman students with a designated point of contact on campus.
“Collectively supporting students to success in their college journeys is the core commitment of our partnership,” said Allison Williams, Wyman president and CEO. “Knowing there is someone Wyman trusts on campus can help a student feel more comfortable.”
Through the partnership, Wyman students at SEMO work closely with SEMO support staff around their academic progress and social well-being. SEMO has worked with 43 Wyman students since 2011.
“We sincerely value our partnership with Wyman,” said SEMO President Dr. Carlos Vargas. “The organization enhances our ability to support students by providing the custom resources, support and opportunities they need to thrive in their academic journey.”
SEMO offers eligible Wyman participants a College Access Partnership Award (CAP-A), valued at $500 to $2,000 annually. The award nomination must be submitted by Wyman to SEMO upon meeting the criteria below:
- College Access Partnership Award nomination form must be submitted by Wyman to SEMO by March 1 of the student’s senior year
- Students must submit their completed application for admission at SEMO and the Educational Access Programs by March 1
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be on file by March 1
Upon receiving the award, Wyman and SEMO will continue to provide students with academic support, mentorship and coaching through the TRIO and Educational Access Programs.
“A strong aspect of this partnership is that students know exactly who to go to for support and resources,” said Wyman Post-Secondary Programming Coordinator, Kristin Wheeler. “We make sure our students know who that person is in the TRIO and Educational Access office. It helps them feel valued and supported.”
A study of Wyman alum shows that students attending a higher education partner school are more likely to complete their degree. Together, SEMO and Wyman look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of the students they serve.