New Fund Launched to Support Parent Students in Virginia

In a significant move to empower parent students across the Commonwealth, the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE) has launched the Connie Kincheloe Fund for Parent Student Success. This initiative, which has already secured nearly $400,000 in donations, aims to address the unique challenges faced by the 20% of college students in Virginia who are parents.

The announcement of the fund took place during a heartfelt dinner celebrating Connie Kincheloe’s designation as Board Emerita. Kincheloe, a longstanding advocate for education and community development, expressed her gratitude and surprise at the creation of the fund in her honor. “I am completely taken aback by this incredible gesture,” said Kincheloe. “The idea that this fund will help parent students overcome obstacles and improve their lives—and the lives of their children—means more to me than I can express.”

Parent students often juggle the responsibilities of raising children while pursuing their educational goals. Many face significant obstacles, including access to affordable childcare, financial constraints, and limited resources. The Connie Kincheloe Fund for Parent Student Success aims to provide essential support, helping to alleviate these burdens and allowing students to focus on their studies.

The fund’s mission extends beyond individual academic success; it seeks to uplift entire families. By enabling parent students to complete their education, the initiative not only fosters personal growth but also contributes to stronger, more resilient communities throughout Virginia.

“Supporting parent students is crucial for creating a more equitable educational landscape,” said a VFCCE Director of Community Engagement Anne Rogers. “By providing the resources they need, we’re investing in the future of our communities.”

The VFCCE has a long history of advocating for accessible education in Virginia, and the Connie Kincheloe Fund for Parent Students is a testament to that commitment. It reflects the foundation’s recognition of the vital role that education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering economic mobility.

As the VFCCE prepares to roll out the fund, they invite community members and organizations to contribute. Every donation will directly support parent students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed academically and personally.

In a time when the challenges of balancing education and family life are more pronounced than ever, the Connie Kincheloe Fund for Parent Students stands as a beacon of hope and support for many Virginians. It underscores the belief that with the right resources, parent students can not only achieve their academic dreams but also create a brighter future for their families.

For more information about the fund and how to get involved, visit the VFCCE’s website, email foundation@vccs.edu, or call 804-819-4961.