inspired by
results
the promise movement
Promise programs are place-based scholarship programs that make college tuition free for at least one college. While all have residency high school diploma requirements, some have additional eligibility criteria such as a minimum GPA.
Promise communities have grown from one (Kalamazoo, Michigan) in 2005 to over 300, offering free college tuition programs in at least 32 states.
These Promise programs are delivering what they promised: more college attendance and completion, plus a talented workforce that drives economic growth.
Rockford Promise is proud to be a part of this inspiring national movement.
Promise Program Research & Resources
Visit these Promise-related sites for more information on what other communities are doing, valuable relevant research collected from these programs, and more.
Cities of Promise
Cities of Promise is a network of Promise programs throughout the nation, which also provides relevant resources for our Scholars.
W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research
The W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research is a research institution that focuses on the causes and consequences of unemployment, while playing a leading role in research and evaluation of place-based scholarship programs locally and nationally.
The Upjohn Institute also maintains a database of Promise programs from across the country. The purpose of this database is to make it possible for interested people to learn more about Promise programs in specific cities, how programs differ, and where the movement is growing.
Northern Illinois University Study
Northern Illinois University conducted a study that estimated the return on investment (ROI) of adopting a “college for all” program in Rockford (i.e., Rockford Promise). The study found that for every dollar invested, an estimated $131.81 would be generated in additional lifetime earnings, increased local expenditures, and avoided costs of social programs and incarceration.
Lumina Foundation Issue Paper
This illuminating report from the Lumina Foundation provides a more complete picture by highlighting many of the frequently unmeasured and ignored benefits of college attendance.
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