UToledo Earns Ohio Reach Designation to Support Students with Foster Care Experience

UToledo Earns Ohio Reach Designation to Support Students with Foster Care Experience

The University of Toledo recently earned the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation from the Ohio Department of Higher Education, reaffirming its commitment to supporting students who have experienced foster care or kinship care.

UToledo is part of the fourth cohort of institutions to receive the award, joining a network of 61 campuses across the state. UToledo is the only public four-year institution in northwest Ohio to hold the designation.

"We are incredibly honored to receive this designation through Ohio Reach as we continue strengthening the community and resources available for students who have experienced foster care," said Shannon Neumann, associate vice provost for Academic Success and Engagement, whose team led the effort in applying for the designation.

"These students bring resilience, determination and extraordinary potential to our campus, and we are committed to ensuring they feel supported, connected and empowered to achieve their goals at UToledo."

The Ohio Reach initiative helps campuses build strong processes to identify and support students transitioning from out-of-home placements into higher education. For current and prospective UToledo students, the designation serves as a clear message that they belong on campus and have dedicated advocates ready to help them navigate the University's systems.

As part of the program, UToledo will offer targeted support, including mentorship opportunities and a specialized resource guide tailored specifically for students with foster care experience.

Additionally, the designation provides UToledo faculty and staff with access to specialized professional development and a statewide network, equipping them with the tools needed to better serve this student population and further highlighting the University's vital role in supporting the broader community.