Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development

The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (MDHEWD) spent time Thursday collecting information that will help develop strategies for supporting adult learners during a strategic planning session at William Woods University in Fulton.

Approximately 70 individuals representing higher education institutions, community organizations, business and industry, and state agencies convened at the Aldridge Center for an Adult Learner Strategic Planning Session to provide input on how the state can reach its goal of being the best among Midwestern states in educational attainment and labor force participation by 2030.

The event, hosted by MDHEWD, Education Strategy Group, and the Missouri College and Career Attainment Network, included panel discussions and breakout sessions with adult learners, employers, and higher education institutions.

Last year, as part of their strategic plan to provide pathways and reduce barriers to educational attainment and workforce participation, MDHEWD launched the Adult Learner Network to support the development of educational opportunities that match the unique needs and goals of adults. This network will serve as a key group for scaling the strategies and ideas shared during the event.

“As we continue to make progress toward our strategic goals, adult learners are a key group we will focus on,” said Dr. Bennett Boggs, commissioner of higher education. “The input we received from this event will help develop strategies that will make credentials more accessible to adults across Missouri.”

For more information about MDHEWD’s strategic plan, visit  https://dhewd.mo.gov/strategicplan.php. For more information about the Adult Learner Network, visit dhewd.mo.gov/initiatives/AdultLearnerNetwork.php.