About Missouri college access network
Missouri College Access Network: Empowering Missouri Students to Achieve Their Dreams
Missouri College & Career Attainment Network (MOCAN) is a statewide network that aims to increase equity in college and career access, affordability, and completion for Missouri students. MOCAN is committed to empowering students from all backgrounds to achieve their dreams by providing them with the resources they need to succeed.
MOCAN was established in 2012 as part of the Lumina Foundation's national Talent Dividend initiative. The organization is funded by the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development and works closely with schools, colleges, universities, businesses, community organizations, and policymakers across the state.
The mission of MOCAN is simple yet powerful: To ensure that every student in Missouri has access to high-quality education and training that leads to a successful career. The organization believes that education is the key to unlocking opportunities for individuals and communities alike.
MOCAN's work focuses on three main areas:
1. College Access: MOCAN provides resources and support for students who are preparing for college or other postsecondary education options. This includes assistance with financial aid applications, college admissions processes, test preparation, career exploration activities, mentoring programs, and more.
2. College Affordability: MOCAN works with colleges and universities across Missouri to promote affordable higher education options for all students. This includes advocating for policies that reduce student debt burdens such as tuition freezes or reductions at public institutions.
3. College Completion: MOCAN supports initiatives aimed at increasing graduation rates among Missouri students by providing academic support services such as tutoring programs or study groups; promoting early alert systems designed to identify struggling students before they fall too far behind; offering professional development opportunities for educators; developing partnerships between K-12 schools and higher education institutions; etc.
One of the unique aspects of MOCAN's approach is its focus on equity in higher education access. The organization recognizes that not all students have the same opportunities to succeed, and it is committed to addressing the systemic barriers that prevent some students from reaching their full potential.
MOCAN's equity-focused initiatives include:
1. Supporting first-generation college students: MOCAN provides resources and support for students who are the first in their families to attend college. This includes mentoring programs, financial aid workshops, and other services designed to help these students navigate the complex higher education landscape.
2. Addressing racial disparities in higher education: MOCAN works with schools, colleges, universities, and community organizations across Missouri to address racial disparities in access to higher education. This includes advocating for policies that promote diversity on campus; providing training for educators on culturally responsive teaching practices; developing partnerships with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) or other minority-serving institutions (MSIs); etc.
3. Promoting gender equity in STEM fields: MOCAN supports initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields by providing mentorship opportunities for girls interested in STEM careers; promoting awareness of gender bias issues within STEM fields; partnering with businesses or organizations that support women's advancement in STEM careers; etc.
MOCAN's impact can be seen across Missouri's educational landscape. Since its inception, the organization has helped thousands of Missouri students achieve their dreams of attending college or pursuing a successful career path after high school graduation.
For example:
- In 2019-2020 academic year alone MOCAN served over 10k high school seniors through FAFSA completion events.
- In 2020-2021 academic year alone MOCAN provided over $4 million dollars worth of scholarships through various programs.
- In 2018-2019 academic year alone MOCAN supported more than 100 schools across Missouri through its College Access Grant program.
Overall,Missouri College & Career Attainment Network (MOCAN) is a vital resource for Missouri students who are looking to achieve their dreams of higher education and career success. The organization's commitment to equity, affordability, and completion ensures that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential. MOCAN's impact can be seen in the lives of thousands of Missouri students who have benefited from its programs and services over the years.