The College Access unit creates pathways to post-secondary education opportunities for Tennesseans through strategic partnerships and comprehensive support services. The Office of Flagship Communities fosters and manages partnerships with 52 communities across the state providing tailored resources to students, families, and educators that address barriers to educational access and success.

The Office of Educational Opportunities & TRIO Programs provide intentional services that are designed to increase college access and academic success for first-generation, low-income students. These programs have helped thousands of veterans, adults, rural students, and youth from underserved areas in East Tennessee and surrounding rural areas enroll in and complete college.

By engaging students from elementary school through college with academic enrichment programs, career exploration, test preparation, mentoring, and family outreach, the College Access unit builds a sustainable pipeline to college readiness and post-secondary academic success. Signature initiatives that drive impact include:

• Building Flagship Community Partnerships
• Facilitating Educational Opportunities & TRIO Programs Support & Services
• Academic Pipeline & College Pathway Programs
• Advancing Educational & Professional Development