College Secures $3 Million Grant for Student Success
The College of Coastal Georgia has been awarded a $3 million grant over five years from the U.S. Department of Education to transform the Mariner experience. Through the Title III Strengthening Institutions Program and in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, the funding will support the College’s “Transforming the Mariner Experience Through First-Year Engagement, Proactive Coaching, and Modernized Technology” project.
The project will expand programs, services and resources designed to support student success. With more than $1 million in funding during the first year, Coastal Georgia will strengthen first-year engagement through summer bridge programs, student success coaching, and increased access to modern technology. The College will also leverage existing workforce-aligned initiatives, including the paraprofessional pathway in K-12 education, clinical nursing partnerships, and hospitality and tourism industry partnerships, to expand opportunities for underserved students.
“This investment represents a transformational opportunity for our students,” said College of Coastal Georgia President Dr. Johnny Evans Jr. “The College is deeply committed to removing barriers to student success and creating pathways that lead to graduation and career success. This grant allows us to build upon that commitment by providing students with enhanced support, personalized guidance, and stronger connections to career opportunities. We are ensuring that every Mariner has the resources needed to reach their full potential.”
The Transforming the Mariner Experience project also includes hiring student success coaches who will work alongside COMPASS advisors to identify students who may be at risk of falling behind academically. Coaches will support comprehensive career planning, recommend activities that support student progress, and help students build the confidence and skills needed to explore career pathways and navigate the application process. Coaches will also connect students with alumni and industry professionals in their desired fields.
The grant enhances the College’s proactive approach to student success by integrating academic support, career planning, and technology in meaningful ways.
“The first year of college is one of the most important predictors of long-term student success,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. German Vargas. “Through this project, we will create a more connected and supportive experience that helps students build confidence, develop academic and career goals, and navigate challenges before they become obstacles. The result will be stronger outcomes for our students and the region we serve.”
The grant reflects Coastal Georgia’s continued commitment to student-centered innovation and workforce development. By strengthening support services, expanding career-focused opportunities, and increasing access to technology, the College is creating a more comprehensive pathway to success for current and future Mariners while helping meet the workforce needs of Coastal Georgia and beyond.
The Title III Strengthening Institutions Program provides discretionary grants to eligible institutions of higher education to help them become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students. Funding supports efforts to improve and strengthen academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability.