Executive Summary

Founded in 2002, Northwest Education Access (NWEdA) is guided by the belief that all young people, regardless of income or background, should have the opportunity to access higher education. We provide postsecondary bridging and retention support to and through graduation to young people, ages 16-29, who did not successfully complete high school or did not go directly from high school to postsecondary.

NWEdA staff and leadership reflect the community it serves: 76% of the staff are BIPOC and 67% are first generation high school or college graduates. Having shared lived experience between staff and students enables the NWEdA team to build truly authentic relationships with young people and has contributed to NWEdA eliminating the racial equity gaps in college transition for the students it serves.

NWEdA fills a gap in services in King, Pierce, and South Snohomish Counties, Washington by providing a unique approach to young people often forgotten in our communities and who have been historically excluded from opportunity. Each young person works long term, one-on-one with an Education Advocate throughout their higher education journey through graduation day. Our Postsecondary Prep Program helps students earn a high school equivalency (e.g. GED); chart a career and academic course; address life barriers, such as childcare, immigration, and unstable housing; apply for funding and admission; and enroll in classes. Our Postsecondary Success Program continues to support students who have successfully enrolled in postsecondary programs with academic advising, tutoring, professional mentorship, and gap scholarships for school expenses and basic needs.

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