About

About Us

We help working adults return to school, finish their degree or certificate, and unlock opportunity for the future of our region.

Our Goal

Our goal is to increase the number of adults in San Antonio with a college degree or certificate to ensure they have adequate education for the changing job market.

Our Mission

Our mission is to create college opportunities, access, and success for our community.

Our Values

The Upgrade team operates under our core values of Communication, Integrity, Excellence, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork
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Our story

An issue of economic and educational inequality was highlighted in a 2015 report from SA2020, which identified 285,000 adults in Bexar County with some college credit, but no degree. The Graduate! Network, a national network connecting adults to degrees and certificates, was recognized as an evidence-based practice and model for supporting adult learners. There are over 30 communities in The Graduate! Network.

The Trellis Foundation, formerly known as TG, provided funding for a consultant to begin creating the foundation and partnerships for Upgrade. Partnerships were created with higher education partners as well as with local elected officials, businesses, and community-based organizations. Upgrade is the first Graduate! Network affiliate in Texas. Upgrade is also the fourth program powered by the San Antonio Education Partnership. Upgrade was officially launched in April of 2017 and is housed in cafécollege.

Why It Matters

By 2020 65% of all jobs will require a college education. 33% of adults 25 and older in San Antonio have an associates degree or higher. This represents both an economic development challenge and an opportunity for our community.

How We Do It

We coach working adults as they evaluate options and identify educational opportunities, match their goals with a post-secondary learning program and return to school. Upgrade’s services are free and our advisor not only helps you get back into school, but we will also be available to support you throughout your education.