ASD Students Have Debt-Free Pathway to Associate Degree Thanks to Grant
At a news conference today, Lehigh Carbon Community College and PA Senator Pat Browne announced the awarding of a $106,000 grant to support a collaboration between LCCC and the Allentown School District (ASD). These funds come from a grant obtained by Senator Browne through the 2022-23 budget process.
The Tuition- and Debt-Free College Pathway initiative will provide an opportunity for 25 at-promise ASD Early College students to earn an associate degree from LCCC without incurring the cost of a college education. In combination with additional sources, these funds will pay for tuition, as well as a $500 textbook allowance for two years. Participating students who complete their degree at LCCC can then transfer to a college or university to complete their bachelor’s degree. This pathway is streamlined through the 600+ articulation agreements LCCC has with 63 colleges and universities in Pennsylvania and nationwide.
ASD Early College students earning their high school diploma and college degree simultaneously are eligible for this pathway scholarship. Full-time students will start at LCCC in fall 2023 and are expected to complete their associate degree by the end of academic year 2025-26.
“This partnership is an example of the college’s commitment to student success, creating an innovative pathway for students to earn their high school diploma and associate’s degree without incurring debt,” says LCCC President Dr. Ann D. Bieber. “ASD students will be able to fully realize their dreams of a college education.”
“A skilled and talented workforce continues to be the bedrock of the American economy,” Senator Browne said. “This program will help to ensure that our students have new pathways to obtain a high-quality education which will put them on the path to success. I want to thank LCCC for their commitment to the students of Allentown and for providing these outstanding opportunities.”
Students and families interested in the pathway initiative can contact LCCC Office of High School Connections at dualenrollment@lccc.edu.
