Merced-California

UC Merced-led WE Will! Awards $14.2 Million to Education and Health Partners

Introduction:
The UC Merced-led WE Will! Workforce and Education Collaborative has awarded $14.2 million to education and healthcare partners in Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin counties. This funding aims to support “recovery with equity” initiatives and enhance educational and healthcare services in the region.

Body:
The WE Will! Collaborative, spearheaded by UC Merced, focuses on addressing systemic barriers and bridging educational gaps for underrepresented students. The recent funding awards are part of the second round of grants, with a total of 21 projects receiving support.

The funded projects include initiatives to align educational pathways with workforce needs, ensuring that students have access to the skills and opportunities necessary for success. Some of the recipients include Merced City School District, Merced County Office of Education, and Modesto Junior College.

These projects aim to create sustainable, high-demand career pathways in critical workforce sectors such as healthcare and education. The collaborative efforts between educational institutions and industry leaders are expected to drive meaningful changes and foster lasting relationships within the community.

Conclusion:
The WE Will! Collaborative’s funding awards highlight the importance of investing in education and healthcare to promote equity and opportunity. By supporting these initiatives, UC Merced and its partners are empowering the next generation and strengthening the regional community.

UC Merced’s 20-Year Impact Report Highlights Achievements and Challenges

A report from the Legislative Analyst’s Office reviewed the first 20 years of UC Merced, highlighting its unique student demographics and financial challenges. UC Merced enrolls a higher percentage of undergraduates, first-generation students, and Pell Grant recipients compared to other UC campuses. Despite receiving more state funding per student, the campus struggles to meet enrollment targets and faces higher operational costs. The report also notes that educational outcomes in the San Joaquin Valley still lag behind state averages.