In Fall 2019, the Say Yes Scholars Program at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) — managed by College Now — launched as a lifeline for qualifying students who may need additional support on campus. With retention rates – the process of keeping students enrolled at postsecondary education institutions — hitting historic lows just prior to the pandemic, De’Antae Ware, director of the Say Yes Scholars Program, recognized the urgent need to not only meet but exceed retention and graduation targets.  

“Understanding that Tri-C students often require additional support compared to their counterparts at four-year institutions, our objective was not only to elevate them to the expected standard but to surpass it. We strive for our students to not just meet expectations but to leave our program as our ‘colleagues,’ as we like to say,” Ware says. The Say Yes Scholars Program works to ensure the success of each student who attends Tri-C with a Say Yes Cleveland scholarship by providing comprehensive services including one-on-one coaching, priority registration, FAFSA assistance, campus workshops and events. Beyond the tangible benefits, the most valuable aspect is the relationships students form with their success coaches on campus. 

While the Say Yes Scholars Retention programs extend to Kent State University and The Ohio State University and new next year will be the University of Akron, Tri-C’s program is notably robust due to its larger first-generation student population. Success coaches serve as navigators, connecting students to resources both on and off campus. They organize engaging events, from social gatherings to academic workshops, fostering a sense of community among Say Yes Cleveland scholarship recipients. With College Now serving as the administrator for the Say Yes Cleveland scholarship, Ware credits the knowledge, resources and experts they utilized from the organization to kick-off the program.  

At the wrap up of the 2023 academic year, the program underwent a comprehensive three-year evaluation of its students. Surprisingly, the staff discovered that it wasn’t the $500  stipend students receive each semester that incentivized students to continue – and ultimately — their degree program, but rather the deep connections forged with their Say Yes success coaches. These coaches go above and beyond to support their students, extending their assistance well past campus boundaries. From purchasing diapers during times of need to providing aid in crises like house fires, success coaches serve as invaluable navigators and resource-finders, breaking down barriers and serving as a support system for their students. 

Acknowledging that many Tri-C students serve as the primary breadwinners for their families, the program’s focus on career support becomes even more critical. They recognize the immense responsibility these students carry, not only for their own education but also for the financial stability of their households. Therefore, in addition to academic guidance, our program places a strong emphasis on career development, offering resources such as resume workshops, mock interviews and networking opportunities with the goal to empower students to secure meaningful employment that not only supports themselves but also uplifts their families. 

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Tri-C’s Say Yes Scholars Program has remained resilient, with retention rates on the rise. This success can be attributed to the strong relationships forged between coaches and students, highlighting the program’s emphasis on personalized support and mentorship. Tri-C’s Say Yes experience is not just about academic achievement; it’s also about empowering students to reach their full potential. Through workshops, events and career resources, the Tri-C success coaches equip scholars with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the workforce. With a focus on growth and grit, the program aims to empower students to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals, no matter the odds.