Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development

ACAC announces Missouri School of Excellence

The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (MDHEWD) hosted virtual Journey to College Day on Tuesday, July 28, for educators, counselors, financial aid personnel and advisors from Missouri schools, colleges and universities, and access organizations.

Speakers for Journey to College Day shared program updates for Apply Missouri, FAFSA Frenzy, and Decision Day events. Speakers also provided information and updates on federal and state financial aid and scholarships.  

“Even during these challenging times, it’s important we find ways to come together and celebrate Journey to College,” said Zora Mulligan, commissioner of higher education. “These programs, which would not be possible without the work of high school counselors and financial aid advisors throughout Missouri, help students get the support they need to achieve their college and career goals.”

High school counselors and college personnel who host Journey to College events shared best practices, including how to organize virtual events and make them meaningful for students and parents.

The annual event was originally planned to be held in person, but was moved to an online format due to COVID-19. Each presentation was recorded and is now posted online, as well as several bonus sessions including topics such as Missouri Apprenticeships, the Missouri Intern Connect Portal, and an ACT test update.

During Journey to College Day, Osceola High School was honored by The American College Application Campaign (ACAC) as Missouri’s 2019 “School of Excellence.” Osceola received the award for its efforts in all three Journey to College programs. Missouri’s Journey to College programs fit into ACAC’s national efforts to increase the number of first-generation college students and students from low-income families pursuing a college degree or other higher education credential.

“Congratulations to Osceola for its vision and leadership — you’ve led the way in your community, your state and for the nation,” said ACAC Director Melissa Caperton. “While we are thrilled to take this moment to recognize your impactful work, we know you are already preparing for a new college application season that will kick off with #WhyApply Day on Friday, Sept. 18. We will once again look to you to help us have another successful year.”

According to the 2019 annual survey, Missouri results indicate:

• Nearly 120 high schools hosted a College Application Campaign event.
• More than 1,420 seniors submitted at least one college application during these events.
• More than 2,000 college applications were submitted during 2019 College Application Campaign events.

For more information about Journey to College programs, including how to participate in 2020-21 events, visit https://dhewd.mo.gov/ppc/journeytocollegeprograms.php

About the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development: The department works to empower Missourians with the skills and education needed for success. More information about MDHEWD can be found at https://dhewd.mo.gov or on Facebook and Twitter @MoDHEWD.

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