AIC Hosts Second Annual Pathway to Higher Education Forum

SPRINGFIELD, MA — Members of the Springfield community attended the second annual Parents as Partners on the Pathway to Higher Education forum held at American International College (AIC) on January 30. The event, organized by State Representative Bud Williams of Springfield, was presented by AIC in collaboration with the Coalition of Experienced Black Educators, and the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership.

This partnership aims to empower parents in supporting their children’s academic success. The forum offered valuable insights to Springfield families, emphasizing the significant influence parents and other caring adults can have on a young person’s future potential. This year’s forum specifically provided a data-driven exploration of the pathway to college. AIC President Hubert Benitez, joined by educators and AIC students, shared insights into how various factors, spanning grades K – 12, can shape a student’s journey toward higher education.

President Benitez shares that the forum aligns with AIC’s mission, centered on providing educational access in an inclusive environment for a diverse community of learners. “AIC has been a pillar of Springfield for 138 years, situated in Mason Square, one of the most diverse areas in the region. This partnership, and these forums, are a way for AIC to work collaboratively with these two organizations to provide access to higher education for a diverse population. It is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the community.”

The Coalition of Experienced Black Educators is a non-profit organization that provides educational support to the Black community in Springfield. 

The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership (SEZP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving student achievement in Springfield, Massachusetts. A unique partnership between the Springfield Public Schools, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the Springfield Education Association teacher’s union, SEZP serves more than 5,000 students in 16 middle and high schools that it operates across the city.

See news coverage of the event by clicking on these links:

American International College Hosts Pathway to Higher Education Forum (westernmassnews.com)

How Parents’ Role Can Benefit College Experience (wwlp.com)

AIC to host Parents as Partners on the Pathway to Higher Education forum (The Republican/MassLive)

AIC set to host Jan. 30 higher education forum (The Reminder)