Get2College unveils Mobile College Access and Planning Center

JANS – On Sept. 11, 2205, the Woodward Hines Education Foundation (WHEF)  announced the launch of its fourth college access and planning center, the Get2College Mobile Center, a state-of-the-art mobile resource designed to deliver free college and career planning services directly to students and families across Mississippi.

The Mobile Center, made possible through generous support from the Walton Family Foundation and Entergy Mississippi, represents a step in expanding equitable access to postsecondary planning – particularly in rural and underserved communities where barriers such as limited transportation, fewer school counseling staff, and unreliable internet often stand in the way of college enrollment.

“This isn’t just a vehicle – it’s a mission on wheels,” said Jim McHale, President and CEO of WHEF. “By taking our services directly to communities, we’re helping remove the barriers that keep too many students from pursuing education beyond high school.”

The Get2College Mobile Center will initially serve students and families in Carroll, Holmes, Tallahatchie, Coahoma, Tunica, and Quitman counties. Postsecondary attainment in these counties ranges from 21% to 33%, compared to the Mississippi statewide average of 48.7% (Lumina Foundation’s Stronger Nation report).

This effort is directly aligned with Mississippi’s Ascent to 55% goal, the state’s first formally established postsecondary attainment plan, which calls for 55% of Mississippi’s working-age population to hold a degree or credential by 2030, and 60% by 2035.

Modeled after the success of bookmobiles and mobile healthcare units, the 17-foot Get2College Mobile Center is built on a commercial truck chassis, combining ample space with flexibility for staff driving (no special license required). It is staffed by two full-time Get2College counselors and outfitted with:

Modern technology, private counseling space, and Wi-Fi.

Support for FAFSA completion, financial aid guidance, and testing preparation.

College applications and one-on-one advising.

Flexible scheduling to serve students at schools, libraries, churches, community centers, and even high school football games.

“Education is the foundation of Mississippi’s economic future,” said Haley Fisackerly, President and CEO of Entergy Mississippi and WHEF Board Member. “The Mobile Center ensures students in rural and underserved communities have opportunities to pursue higher education, which will ultimately strengthen families, communities, and our workforce.”

To learn more about the Mobile Center and WHEF, visit woodwardhines.org.