February 04, 2025 —The future for Columbus City Schools graduates is brighter than ever as the Columbus Promise enters its second phase. This expansion cements the program’s role as a transformative force in higher education and workforce development, offering students a fully funded pathway to college and career success.
Leaders from across the city came together at Fort Hayes Arts and Academic High School to celebrate the launch of Columbus Promise phase two. Alumni, the Mayor of Columbus, Andrew J. Ginther, Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin, I Know I Can CEO Katina Fullen, and others, gathered for the occasion. They congratulated students who have completed the program and looked forward to students who can participate in the future in this renewed promise.
“The Columbus Promise continues to be a transformative opportunity for our students,” said Columbus City Schools Superintendent and CEO Dr. Angela Chapman. “As we launch phase two of this groundbreaking program, I am proud to see our community unite, investing in our scholars' success.”
For students like Sarah Alexander, a South High School alumna now in her second year at Columbus State Community College, the Columbus Promise has redefined what is possible.
“Columbus City Schools has given me the opportunity to grow as an individual and as a student," Alexander said. “I've been able to meet countless individuals, network, and get connected to professionals in my industry and gain educational experience.”
With tuition and fees covered, Alexander is earning a degree in Business Management Entrepreneurship while gaining hands-on experience through Nationwide’s Financial Services Professional Apprenticeship Program. Without the burden of student debt, Alexander is focused on her studies, preparing for a career in Columbus’ growing economic landscape.
“[Being part of Columbus Promise] honestly feels great and almost unreal at the same time," Alexander said. “I'm able to work at a great program at Nationwide and discover the corporate world while being a student and furthering both my education and professional experience.”
Alexander’s story reflects a growing shift within CCS, where students who once faced barriers to higher education are now equipped to pursue careers in high-demand industries. The Columbus Promise was founded on the principle that every student deserves access to higher education, regardless of financial standing.
Since its inception, the program has more than doubled the number of CCS graduates enrolling at Columbus State, shifting the course for students who may not have otherwise considered college an option.
“By doubling college enrollment rates, demonstrates the power of this partnership to support students academically and prepare them for tomorrow's workforce,” Dr. Chapman emphasized. “Phase 2 will allow us to build on this momentum, creating a stronger, more equitable future for Columbus City Schools graduates and our entire community.”
Destinee Harris, another South High School graduate, is nearing completion of her program. Harris will graduate with two associate degrees—one in Health Sciences and another in Multi-Skilled Health—credentials that will immediately position her for success in the healthcare industry, a field that has seen massive growth in Columbus and nationally.
“[The Columbus Promise] has opened a lot of doors for me,” Harris said. “I was not gonna go to college at all. [Columbus Promise] made me really sit down and think about my future and what I really wanted to do.”
Columbus Promise has made a tangible impact on college-going rates, increasing CCS graduates’ enrollment at Columbus State from 32% in 2020 to 50% in 2023. More than half of Promise Scholars are first-generation college students, many also balancing work and family responsibilities.
“It's really nice to hear that everyone wants to pitch in and see that students succeed,” Harris said. “Columbus City Schools prepared me for the outside world. I would have never thought to [go to college] if it wasn't for the people at Columbus City Schools, they prepared me for adult life and I'm really happy for these upcoming students because they can have a bright future.”
Phase two of the program is made possible by the support of public-private partnerships from The City of Columbus, Cardinal Health, I Know I Can, and other dedicated partners. The Columbus Promise will fund three additional cohorts through 2027, expanding access to another 2,250 students.
"I'm incredibly proud that Columbus Promise is opening doors for countless students and ensuring they have a chance to reach their full potential," said Jerome Revish, SVP, Chief Technology Officer at Cardinal Health. "This program is a testament of our community's commitment to empowering students to create a more promising future."
The Columbus Promise is about access, economic mobility, and workforce development. Columbus is experiencing unprecedented job growth, and the Promise ensures that local students are prepared to meet the demand.
As the Columbus Promise enters its second phase, its impact will continue to grow, reinforcing the belief that opportunity should not be determined by zip code or economic status. Columbus City Schools remains committed to ensuring every graduate has the resources and support to succeed. The Class of 2025 and beyond will enter a world of possibilities, where they are empowered to dream big and achieve more.
For additional information about the Columbus Promise, including how to apply, click here.
