Lourdes University Awarded Designation That Supports Foster Youth

Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) Chancellor Mike Duffey recently named Lourdes University among the second group of Ohio colleges, universities, and Ohio Technical Centers to earn the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation for their efforts to support foster care-connected students.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential and this designation is a signal to those connected to the foster care system that a designated school provides unique support and resources to help them succeed,” said Governor Mike DeWine.

“Students with foster care experience often approach higher education with different life experiences and unique needs in mind,” continues Chancellor Duffey. “Ohio Reach schools have demonstrated a willingness to invest in these students and commit to shared success. We appreciate this commitment to Ohio’s youth.”

Lourdes University is among 12 institutions receiving the latest Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation, and is now included in the 40 total institutions that have received the designation. So far, 111 Ohio Reach students have since been identified through the designation to receive support services.

“The Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation signifies hope for the state of Ohio,” says Amy Bennett, Grants and Compliance Officer at Lourdes University. “We are honored to have received the designation and look forward to advocating for the dreams and goals of foster care-connected students by providing valuable support and connections.”

For more information about the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation and a map of Ohio Reach schools, please visit https://highered.ohio.gov/ohio-reach.