Re-Engage Nebraska invites adult learners to complete degrees
CHADRON – Chadron State College is participating in ReEngage Nebraska, a grant-funded program designed to reconnect adult learners who have paused their education and provide them with a clear, supportive pathway back to college to pursue a degree. The program focuses on students who have been away from CSC for more than a year by helping them return to coursework and complete their bachelor's degree.
As part of this effort, the Nebraska State College System received approval from the Coordinating Commission Post-Secondary Education to award an Associate of General Studies (AGS) degree to eligible students.
CSC President Dr. Jodi Kupper said the program has a lot to offer.
“This allows us to recognize previously earned academic credit, ensuring students are not left with stranded credit and no credential, while also encouraging them to return to finish their four-year degree,” Kupper said.
ReEngage Nebraska is designed to reduce barriers and create new opportunities for student success through flexible options, one free course, recognition of prior learning and life experience, and a dedicated support network.
Fifteen AGS degree recipients plan to walk during Spring commencement Saturday.
“This is an exciting opportunity for these students and a perfect opportunity for us to congratulate them and welcome them back to campus,” Kupper said.
She plans to share further program details during an all-campus meeting Sept. 10, followed by a formal launch of the program. Follow-up meetings will take place with various campus stakeholders throughout the fall semester.
Jordan Economou of Wynne, Arkansas, was CSC’s first Re-Engage student. He enrolled in the Spring and plans to continue to take classes over the summer. He has received his AGS and plans to finish his degree in Interdisciplinary Studies before he deploys with the military.
Taylor Hiett is interested in earning a bachelor’s degree in psychological sciences and plans to enroll in the fall.
Jody Motz, CSC’s Title IX Director, plans to start classes in the fall. She will major in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Motz said she heard about the program during the all-campus meeting in February.
“It sounded like something I could qualify for and was excited when I got home that night and found a letter about it in my mailbox,” Motz said.
Motz said it requires patience and flexibility to balance school and work. The online class format allows her to work on assignments in the evenings after the children are asleep.
Saturday, she will be the first person and the first woman in her family to earn a college degree.
“For the last 25 years, I’ve been collecting college credits almost like those little state magnets found at roadside stops all over the U.S. But nothing screams detour louder than babies and bills. My learning never stopped; I just took a detour,” Motz said. “That frame on my wall won’t just hold a degree; it will symbolize generations of women who raised their families and worked hard. I hope I’ve made them proud. This recognition is for all of them, for all of us, doing our best to hold it together and daring to make a change in the world.”
Motz’s advice to others is to take one step at a time.
“It still gets you to your destination; no sprinting required. It’s okay to take your time, give yourself grace, and breathe. You do not have to navigate this alone. CSC has a knowledgeable team of Admissions, ReEngage, and START Office staff and advisors who can help guide you through your journey, detours, and all.”
To learn more about Chadron State College’s ReEngage Nebraska, visit https://reengage.csc.edu/.
Category: Commencement, Nebraska State College System, Student Awards & Achievements