The Center for Social Innovation (CFSI) at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City is providing opportunities for individuals who have faced barriers to education to pursue their career goals. Founded in 2020 with a grant from the E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, the program offers a two-semester program that includes college classes, leadership training, emotional intelligence skills, and wraparound services to support students in overcoming challenges like homelessness, incarceration, and domestic violence. The program has seen success, with graduates increasing their average annual wage from $10,000 to $37,000, even without a degree.
The center’s fifth cohort of students is currently progressing through the program, with applicants motivated by the desire to create a better life for themselves and their families. The community of diverse students at CFSI provides a supportive environment for individuals who may have experienced isolation and challenges in the past.
One success story is John Standfill, a data specialist at CFSI who overcame his past to pursue a college education and a career helping others. Another student, Merrie Smith, shared her goal of becoming a professor to inspire others who may feel college is out of reach. The program aims to break generational cycles of poverty and homelessness by providing comprehensive support and empowering individuals to achieve their dreams.
Despite the challenges of returning to school after facing significant obstacles, CFSI’s high retention rate reflects the transformative impact it has on students’ lives. The program’s success lies in its ability to provide a supportive community, access to education, and resources for students to thrive.
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