Innovation Meets Impact: A New Model for Engaged Learning

NACCE Blog,

At the heart of every thriving community lies the power of its youth. Community colleges stand at a unique crossroads, poised to unlock this potential and drive meaningful local change. By empowering students with real-world skills and cultivating their creativity, these institutions can transform challenges into opportunities for growth.

In this landscape of untapped potential, SolveCC has emerged as a catalyst. Our program harnesses the energy and creativity of community college students, channeling it towards addressing pressing local issues. With SolveCC, students develop essential skills and gain the confidence to tackle real-world challenges in their communities.

Empowering Local Change-Makers

The majority of community college students are deeply rooted in their local areas, either as established residents or those likely to remain after graduation. SolveCC taps into this connection, encouraging students to think deeper and critically about community problems. Our approach promotes innovative thinking and nurtures entrepreneurship by providing a safe space for experimentation.

Students can take calculated risks, learn from both successes and failures, and develop practical solutions to real-world issues—all without the high stakes of launching an actual company. This process builds essential skills and instills an entrepreneurial mindset, preparing students to become effective problem-solvers and potential future entrepreneurs in their communities.

To put these principles into action, our program brings together diverse students from all walks of life and all disciplines, setting them on a collaborative journey. Participants engage with their community, identify areas for improvement, and develop innovative solutions. This process not only benefits students but also strengthens the ties between colleges and their local ecosystems.

Access for Every Aspiring Innovator

SolveCC believes in the potential of all students. Here's what participants are saying:

Andrea: "SolveCC encouraged me to think outside the box - to think beyond myself. I've always been passionate about social change, and this was the perfect opportunity to explore that interest while receiving an awesome support system to guide me."

Desidero: "With SolveCC, I saw the opportunity to learn valuable skills, gain experience, and meet people from different backgrounds. Most importantly, I could help my community in ways I wish I'd been helped when I was younger, hopefully making a real difference."

From Idea to Impact

Our programs go beyond theoretical exercises. Teams like “Blue Horizon” and “Community Catalyst” showcase the real-world impact of student innovation:

The Team Blue Horizon

The Team Community Catalyst

Why Community Colleges are partnering with SolveCC

  1. Skills development: Participants gain crucial skills in teamwork, critical thinking, and innovation.
  2. Real-world problem-solving: Students address issues directly affecting their communities.
  3. Community engagement: Colleges strengthen their ties with local organizations and businesses.
  4. Student retention: The program's engaging nature keeps students motivated and connected to their studies.

Dr. Rebecca A. Corbin, Ed.D., President & CEO, NACCE, shares her insights on the impact of SolveCC:

 

Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation

As we prepare for our panel at the upcoming NACCE 2024 National Conference, we're excited to share more stories of student innovation and community impact. Mark your calendars for our upcoming webinar on September 26, where you'll gain insights into how SolveCC fosters innovation and community engagement.

Ready to empower your students and strengthen your community ties?

Sign up today for this FREE webinar:

Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024

2 p.m. ET, 1 p.m. CT, noon MT, 11 a.m. PT

Click here to register.