Postsecondary & Workforce

To empower more Memphians with the education and experiences they will need to compete, higher education leaders must remain focused on tackling inequitable institutional resources and student outcomes. In distressed areas, poverty’s effects hinder its citizens from participating in and capitalizing on a strong national economy. It is estimated that an additional 77,000 credentials need to be earned to address the current labor requirements that demand an educated workforce. 

For the most recent postsecondary completion cohort (the high school graduation class of 2013), 21% graduated from a two or four-year institution within six years. Of the nearly 50% who go on to pursue a postsecondary degree, nearly 75% are persisting from year one to two.

NSC Memphis Data on College Going and Persistence

An integral part of the cradle to career pipeline is an accessible and effective postsecondary system, producing certificates and degrees that enable improved economic positionality. S2 in partnership with the Memphis Area Presidents Council—a partnership of the 16 local area postsecondary presidents—is building stronger partnerships between the K-12, postsecondary, and workforce sectors for the development of a coordinated and aligned system. With recent support from the Kresge Foundation, the MAPC will work with the local school systems, local governments, Workforce Investment Network, Greater Memphis Chamber, and other key partners to develop a comprehensive and aligned approach to serving our local citizens. The goal of this effort is aligned directly to Tennessee’s “Drive to 55” framework, which aims to have 55% of adults possessing a certificate or degree by 2025. To move this work forward, they have committed to the development and implementation of a strategic action plan designed to remove barriers, scale several effective pathways, and increase the number of individuals attaining a postsecondary degree, credential, or workforce opportunity. 

Memphis Area Presidents Council Co-Chairs:
Dr. M David Rudd, University of Memphis and Dr. Tracy Hall, Southwest Tennessee Community College