NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville was chosen as one of six cities to receive $7 million as part of JPMorgan Chase's New Skills at Work investment.
Last year, the banking organization announced a five-year plan to invest $350 million in the growing demand for skilled workers. The initiative will support community colleges, non-traditional career pathway programs and address systemic inequalities.
In Nashville, the funds will provide support for a seamless transition of underrepresented students from Metro Nashville Public Schools into Nashville State Community College to earn a credential or degree and enter a high-wage, high-demand career. Four Metro high schools will initially be focused on: Whites Creek, Pearl-Cohn, Maplewood and Overton.
"As Nashville's Community College, we are thankful to JPMorgan Chase for this significant investment to strengthen the communities we serve. The New Skills Ready resources will accelerate the alignment of career pathways for MNPS students to seamlessly transition to Nashville State. Nashville State is focused on student success and workforce development. This grant ensures our students have the right supports to stay on path to earning the education and skills critical to meet the needs of our diverse workforce," said Dr. Shanna L. Jackson, president of Nashville State Community College.
JPMorgan Chase made the announcement on Tuesday morning during a virtual meeting attended by Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon and Mayor John Cooper.
"Thanks to the support of JPMorgan Chase, we can provide even greater opportunities and pathways for our students so that they can leave high school and be prepared to succeed in our growing economy. Our partnerships with Nashville State and the Nashville Chamber will help to show our students their unlimited potential if they work hard and focus on their future success," said Dr. Adrienne Battle, director of MNPS.
Other cities that will join the New Skills Ready collaboration include Denver, Dallas, Columbus, Ohio, Boston and Indianapolis.
