The University of Dayton earned a $500,000 grant from the American Talent Initiative to launch a UD Sinclair Academy initiative that connects students with local employers.

"This program will help keep talented students in Dayton," said UD President Eric F. Spina, who supports expanding college access nationwide as an ATI steering committee member. "By connecting education to local job needs, we’re building stronger futures for our students and fueling the region’s economic growth."

Employers will guarantee participating students an interview, shadowing opportunities, internships or co-ops.

Research by the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education shows 80% of graduates from affiliate schools in the Dayton region who have local internships stay in the area after graduation.

Focusing on Pell Grant-eligible students, the program enhances the UD Sinclair Academy’s benefits. The Academy eliminates financial barriers and provides clear pathways from Sinclair to UD, ensuring students take the right classes without wasting time or money. They also know the total cost of their education upfront, receive academic advising on both campuses, and benefit from a success coach at UD. Students also can engage in university life while at Sinclair by joining UD clubs, using the UD library and RecPlex, and more.

"The UD Sinclair Academy is a shining example of what can be accomplished when institutions collaborate to remove barriers for students and create clear, affordable pathways to a four-year degree," said Steven Johnson, Sinclair Community College president. "This new initiative will not only help more students access the transformative power of education but also connect them with local employers who are eager to invest in their success. Together, we are strengthening the Dayton region by keeping talent here and building a vibrant future for our students and community."

The grant was awarded in a competitive process by the American Talent Initiative, a national alliance of higher education institutions committed to expanding access and success for talented low- and moderate-income students. It is provided in partnership with the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program and Ithaka S+R, and funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies. 

"The University of Dayton’s commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive regional workforce through innovative pathways for low- and middle-income students exemplifies the mission of the American Talent Initiative," said Tania LaViolet, co-lead of the American Talent Initiative. "We proudly support this initiative, which will provide value for lower-income students and the Dayton community and demonstrate the power of higher education as a public good."

More information on the UD Sinclair Academy is available online.