June 6, 2019

NEXTUniversity Graduation Ceremony Recognizes Seniors with Honor Cords

NEXTUniversity is an empowerment program that works with high school students within Abilene Independent School District (AISD) taking dual-credit classes. The primary goal is for students to gain a certification for industry related fields that can be categorized as a primary job under the purview of the economic development statue.

The NEXTUniversity program was created by the Abilene Industrial Foundation, who serves under the Development Corporation of Abilene to help cultivate the local economic development plan. NEXTUniversity receives funding from the Development Corporation of Abilene.  These funds provide workforce development dollars for students to pay for tuition, books, and supplies.

The Abilene Education Foundation is mechanizing a NEXTUniversity Workforce Development Coach, whom walks with students through their high school dual-credit journey to ensure their success. Students graduate with an industry-based certification empowering them as they enter the workforce or continue their education at the post-secondary level.

Twenty-four students, thirteen electrical and eleven welding, will were recognized for their accomplishments.  These twenty-four students have been enrolled in dual-credit classes offered at Cisco College and/or Texas State Technical College. NEXTUniversity graduating seniors and received an honor cord to be worn at their high school graduation.  The gradution ceremony will included student and industry leader insight from the program.

Development Corporation of Abilene is a proud recipient of the following recognition: