Photo of Talkington hall on LC State campus

News Release

LCSC receives grant to promote new adult learner initiative

LEWISTON, Idaho – Long known for its focus on and success in serving working adults, Lewis-Clark State College is launching a new adult learner initiative and now has funds to spread the word about it thanks to a $35,000 grant from the Idaho Workforce Development Council, announced last week.

The grant, which is one of the first of its kind for the Workforce Development Council, an independent office under the Governor established in 2017, will be used to help LCSC launch its new Adult Learner program and to market its many facets.

“We are honored to have been selected as a grant recipient and excited about the programming we’ll be able to develop as a result,” said LCSC Vice President for Student Affairs Andy Hanson. “LCSC’s commitment to adult learners is as strong as ever and it is with great enthusiasm that we continue to identify ways we can widen access to higher education for adults.”

While new adult learner-focused programs have been developed and more are in the works, a centerpiece of LCSC’s new initiative is to expand, streamline, and better communicate the many resources that already exist for non-traditional students. These resources at LCSC include expanded online class offerings, including 30 programs offered fully online; new night and weekend classes; a revamped Prior Learning Assessment program; and scholarship opportunities.

All of the efforts are expected to be of particular benefit to individuals who have previously taken college courses but did not finish their degree or certificate. The program will help students find the shortest route to earn their degree by analyzing their college credits and seeing if they are eligible for prior learning credits, which can be acquired through professional or educational experience.

Along with financial aid, a number of scholarship opportunities are available to adult learners, including the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship which awards eligible applicants up to $3,500 per year and is renewable for up to four years.

LCSC officials say that an Adult Learner program website, presenting a full menu of services and resources, is being developed and is expected to be online later this spring. Until then, individuals interested in the program can set up a meeting with an advisor to discuss the application process, transfer and course information, prior learning assessment, and tuition by contacting the Admissions Office at 208-792-2378 or [email protected].