This is Governor Steve Beshear ... About Kentucky.

In today’s economy, a college degree is more important than ever before to stay competitive and to advance your career.

That’s why I’m pleased to announce that Kentucky was one of 10 states to be awarded a $1 million grant from Complete College America.

Thirty-three states competed for the grants funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Kentucky’s grant will help more Kentuckians complete their college degrees.

The grant will enhance developmental education opportunities for students who enroll in the Learn on Demand online program offered through the Kentucky Community and Technical College System.

Learn on Demand offers a convenient approach with self-paced degree programs in high-wage, high-demand areas such as nursing, business administration and information technology.

Many of the students in these programs are working adults who can’t fit traditional college classes into their schedules.

And many have developmental education needs.

The grant will support new pathways for adult learners and provide effective academic support services to help more Kentuckians earn their college degrees.

Kentucky’s winning proposal will smooth and shorten pathways to college completion for students, which will save them precious time and money.

It will give taxpayers more of what they expect from their hard-earned investments in higher education – college graduates.

And more college graduates will fuel Kentucky’s economy.

The above content reflects the opinions of the author and not necessarily the policies of the National Governors Association.