Howard Colleges aims to get students college degrees [Video]

HOWARD COUNTY, Texas — Only 20% of high school graduates in the Howard County area go on to finish a college degree, according to the Texas Higher Education Board. Financial constraints remain the biggest barrier to higher education.

But Howard College is stepping up with a unique solution and a promise that could change everything.

On Wednesday, the community college announced its Open Roads Promise program, an initiative designed to increase access to tuition-free college education for students in rural communities. Open Roads aims to remove financial barriers, supporting high school graduates as they pursue associate degrees or certificates at Howard College to prepare for high-demand, well-paying careers.

Brenda Mador, Howard College’s chief of staff and institutional advancement officer, illustrated the college’s vision, saying, “If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re …