Antioch College, a small liberal arts institution in Yellow Springs, Ohio, made headlines this summer when it was officially designated as a Federal Work College by the U.S. Department of Education. This prestigious designation recognizes institutions that integrate work experience into their academic programs, promoting a holistic approach to education and fostering equitable access to higher education.
The Federal Work College model aligns perfectly with Antioch’s long-standing ethos of fusing learning, work, and community service. Since its inception in 1850, Antioch College has championed a model that levels the playing field for access to higher education, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue a college education regardless of their financial background.
In a recent interview with the News, Antioch College’s Dean of Cooperative, International, and Community-based Learning, Luisa Bieri Rios, discussed what the new Federal Work College status means for the college and its community. She emphasized that this model is about providing access to a college education for all students, particularly those who may not have considered college due to affordability concerns.
At Antioch College, approximately 80% of the student body is Pell eligible, meaning they demonstrate financial need and qualify for Pell Grants. The Federal Work College status allows Antioch to leverage more federal dollars to support these students, making college more accessible and affordable for all. This model ensures that every student living on campus must work, regardless of their financial background, creating a more equitable and inclusive educational environment.
The path to becoming a Federal Work College was not easy for Antioch. The application process was rigorous, requiring detailed documentation of the college’s commitment to student work over the preceding two years. However, the hard work paid off when Antioch received approval in February, marking a significant milestone for the institution.
Starting in the fall of 2024, all residential students at Antioch College will be required to contribute at least five hours per week to a campus job. In exchange, they will receive a $4,500 work grant applied directly to their tuition. This initiative has been met with enthusiasm from students and parents alike, as it not only provides financial support but also creates a sense of community and camaraderie among students working together on campus.
Popular work areas at Antioch College include the Olive Kettering Library, the Antioch Farm, and the Foundry Theatre. The college’s emphasis on experiential learning extends to its campus jobs program, offering students hands-on experience in a variety of fields, from sustainable agriculture to food service.
In addition to the financial benefits, becoming a Federal Work College also presents challenges for Antioch. The college will receive a $275,000 grant for the coming year, with the expectation that they match these funds. Antioch is actively seeking additional funding to support its programs and offset the costs of college tuition, relying on grants and donations to sustain its mission of providing equitable access to higher education.
As Antioch College celebrates its new Federal Work College designation, it reflects on its rich history and commitment to experiential learning. From its early days in the 1850s to the present, Antioch has remained dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. With the Federal Work College model, Antioch continues to lead the way in promoting equitable access to higher education and empowering students to reach their full potential.