As the new year kicks off, Lincoln University of Missouri is rolling out "25 in '25" points of pride to build on last year's momentum and keep propelling the University to future success.

Today, Lincoln announced the establishment of a Lincoln University Employment Academy (LUEA) to address Missouri's growing demand for skilled workers across public and private sectors. Focusing on supporting minority and underrepresented populations, the academy will prepare motivated and qualified individuals to fill critical, high-demand positions statewide.

LUEA will welcome its first students in spring 2025, aiming to provide Missouri residents with a direct path to employment by developing essential skills for successful workforce integration. Participants will gain relevant soft, professional and personal skills identified by employers as vital for long-term success.

The program, funded through startup support from the Missouri Department of Social Services, Office of Workforce and Community Initiatives, will launch as a pilot in the spring 2025 semester. Designed as a two-semester, credit-bearing certification program, LUEA integrates education, hands-on training and career development.

"The Lincoln University Employment Academy will provide opportunities to those ready to make a positive change in their lives and work toward fulfilling careers - and the academy will make a significant impact supporting workforce development needs in Missouri," said Lincoln University Assistant Provost for Academic Innovation, Outreach and Research Dr. Darius Watson. "By prioritizing accessible education and skills training, LUEA will ensure that individuals, particularly those in underrepresented populations, have the tools to succeed in our state's most high-demand jobs."

LUEA's flexible and accessible structure will help create a seamless pathway from employment to career advancement. During their first semester, participants will complete online courses that build foundational knowledge for their chosen career paths. In the second semester, students may apply for paid, in-person internships (currently offered in Jefferson City and St. Louis) or continue with online education. Participants in the academy will also be recognized as full-time Lincoln University students, making them eligible for federal financial aid - and they will earn credits that may be applied toward an undergraduate degree.

To ensure the program addresses the state's key workforce needs, LUEA is collaborating with key state agencies and organizations, including the Department of Social Services, Department of Economic Development, Department of Mental Health, Department of Natural Resources and Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. Applications are now being accepted for a limited number of seats in the spring 2025 pilot program.

For more information, visit here.

Stay tuned for the rest of the month with more of Lincoln's 25 in '25.