Southern New Hampshire University and YWCA NH have launched a new partnership initiative to serve immigrant community members in Manchester and across the state.
On December 1, 2017, SNHU, YWCA NH and community members came together for the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the official opening of the Center for New Americans.
“We know that talent is distributed equally, but opportunity is not. At SNHU, we are trying to change that unfortunate reality,” said Paul LeBlanc, President of SNHU. “The Center for New Americans reinforces our commitment to the local community and we are proud to be working with YWCA NH to help more refugees and immigrant populations in the state gain access to the support systems and services they need to transform their lives through education.”
Some services provided by the new center include:
- College preparation and counseling, including financial literacy courses and FAFSA and college application support
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes and preparation services so that students can work towards taking the TOEFL exam and obtaining certification
- College-level courses, using the University’s online and competency-based degree program to offer pathways to a college degree
- Cultural orientation to help refugee and immigrant populations gain cultural competencies and an understanding of U.S. traditions, customs, and laws
- Mentorship and coaching services for local immigrant and refugee populations of all ages to help overcome roadblocks to success