There are over one million adults under the age of 65 in Pennsylvania with some college, but no credential. At the same time, Southwestern Pennsylvania is struggling to meet workforce needs, with current postsecondary credentials meeting only 52 percent of workforce demand.

Higher education and nonprofit leaders across Southwestern Pennsylvania are working to ensure adult learners have the support they need to enroll in and complete high-quality credentials: pathways that lead to economic mobility for individuals and help close the region’s workforce gaps.

Beginning in January 2026, Ithaka S+R is launching a new initiative to work with higher education institutions and community-based organizations in Southwestern Pennsylvania to expand access to education for adult learners. This effort builds on our ongoing research and technical assistance focused on re-engaging adult learners, the momentum and playbook publication from the 2024-2025 Pennsylvania Adult Learner Community of Practice, and regional models such as the Ohio College Comeback Compact. Through this initiative, institutions in the region will work together to address financial and administrative barriers to enrollment and align on strategies that promote persistence and completion. By coordinating efforts across campuses, the initiative will support more adults in earning credentials that meet both their goals and regional labor market needs.

This program is made possible through support from The Heinz Endowments, and will include close collaboration with Pittsburgh Scholar House.

During the initial planning period in early 2026, the cohort of participating colleges and universities will co-design a comprehensive program of interventions, developing a shared vision, identifying common challenges, and designing coordinated strategies for outreach, enrollment, and ongoing support for adult learners. Following the planning period, outreach to prospective students will begin in summer 2026. Throughout the three-year engagement, we anticipate increased adult learner enrollment, increased numbers of adults completing credentials, and alignment with workforce needs, all resulting in a stronger regional economy.

In January 2026, a Request for Proposals (RFP) will be made available to postsecondary institutions in the region that are interested in participating.

For more information about this initiative or opportunities to participate, please contact Liz Looker, Senior Program Manager, at elizabeth.looker@ithaka.org.