Breakthrough Collaborative has launched a new partnership with the University of Denver focused on expanding pathways to college success for first-generation students across the Breakthrough network.
Through the new Pathways Partnership Program, Breakthrough students will have access to financial support, cohort-based programming, leadership development opportunities, and early exposure to campus life and resources at the University of Denver. The partnership aims to help students not only enroll in college, but thrive through graduation and beyond.
The initiative marks the first pilot in Breakthrough Collaborative’s broader strategy to deepen partnerships with colleges and universities nationwide that recognize the talent, leadership, and potential of Breakthrough students.
“Preparing for college is only the first step,” said Angie Wedlick, Chief Program Officer at Breakthrough Collaborative. “Our goal is to ensure students feel equipped academically, financially, and personally to persist in college and achieve long-term success. This partnership reflects what’s possible when higher education institutions intentionally invest in students’ potential and remove barriers that too often stand in the way.”
The program will support students in navigating common financial and structural barriers related to college enrollment and persistence, including gaps in funding and access to community and campus networks. Students will also benefit from cohort experiences designed to build relationships, strengthen leadership skills, and familiarize them with the college environment before they arrive on campus.
“We are pleased to offer this opportunity to all of our Breakthrough students across the country. Our hope is that for students who find this to be a strong fit, the partnership creates an easier and clearer pathway to a positive college experience, a degree and access to networks after graduation,” says Wedlick.
“The University of Denver is proud to partner with Breakthrough Collaborative in supporting students on their path to and through college. Through our partnership, all Breakthrough Scholars receive an application fee waiver and are eligible for a Pathways scholarship of up to $7,500 per year. In addition, many Breakthrough Scholars can expect financial aid awards that are significantly more generous than they likely would have received if they were not part of Breakthrough. We are excited to partner with Breakthrough Collaborative to equip more students to pursue higher education, prepare for meaningful careers, and lead lives of purpose that contribute to the greater good,” said Adrienne Amador Oddi, Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment and Director of Admission at the University of Denver.
The partnership reflects the Collaborative’s mission of supporting students to and through college and creating pathways to long-term social and economic mobility.
Even amid growing debate about the value of college, a bachelor’s degree remains one of the strongest determinants of long-term economic mobility. Workers with a bachelor’s degree earn significantly more over their lifetimes than those with only a high school diploma, and the college wage gap continues to grow. For many first-generation students, however, the challenge is not simply getting into college — it is having the support, resources, and sense of belonging needed to persist and graduate.
Breakthrough Collaborative plans to continue expanding partnerships with colleges and universities that are committed to supporting first-generation and historically underrepresented students through innovative and student-centered approaches.