At the September 6, 2007 Monthly Luncheon AFCEA NOVA, in conjunction with the AFCEA Intl Educational Foundation, presented a check for $20,000 to Northern Virginia Community College to help make college possible for more students in our region interested in studying math and science. The program, called Pathway to the Baccalaureate, provides local financially needy students the opportunity to attend Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), and, ultimately, enroll at George Mason University (GMU).

“We are pleased to be a part of this program that will allow accomplished and motivated high school students to overcome hurdles that might otherwise prevent them from continuing their education,” said NOVA President Robert G. Templin. “We welcome the efforts to give more students access to college.”

The Pathway program was founded by a consortium that includes NOVA, GMU, Fairfax County Public Schools and Loudoun County Public Schools. Pathway to the Baccalaureate will annually target approximately 150+ high school seniors from the two Counties.

Pathway counselors, who are full-time NOVA Community College staff working in the Fairfax and Loudoun school systems, will mentor the Pathway students. The counselors will provide at the high schools that includes helping students participate in advance placement classes, guiding them through college and financial aid applications, and encouraging them get involved in extra-curricular activities. Students following the NOVA/GMU path will also receive assistance in preparing for placement tests and selecting an associate’s degree program at NOVA that is compatible with each student’s intended major at GMU.

Templin said that some students from certain backgrounds, such as children of recent immigrants or who would be the first in their family to go to college, may not pursue college simply because they do not know financial aid exists.