Adams State University students will soon benefit from the launch of the Accelerated Study in Academic Programs (ASAP), a new program through the Colorado Department of Higher Education’s (CDHE) Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI).
COSI ASAP received a prestigious award from Arnold Ventures, a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans through evidence-based policy solutions. Arnold Ventures’ funding is matched by the State of Colorado and institutional funds.
Adams State President David Tandberg, Ph.D., said the goals of ASAP perfectly align with the mission of the University. “With the generous support of Arnold Ventures, through the CDHE, Adams State will have additional resources to support our students throughout their academic career and successfully complete their college degree.”
In early 2025, President Tandberg met with Arnold Ventures to discuss a potential partnership and establish a connection, as both organizations are dedicated to increasing education access and academic success for any student pursuing an undergraduate degree. These early conversations ultimately led to the opportunity to receive this grant.
Modeled after the City of University of New York (CUNY) ASAP, the COSI ASAP initiative mobilizes state, institutional, and private donor funds to replicate a comprehensive, evidence-based degree completion program that integrates proactive advising, structured academic momentum supports, and financial assistance to address barriers to completion.
The total award amount of $2.6 million, including Adams State’s 50 percent match of the COSI ASAP grant, will fund the program from July 2026 through June 2030.
Adams State has managed Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI) grants since the Initiative began in 2015. COSI ASAP will build on the successes of these past state-supported programs. Additional resources in advising, tutoring, financial aid, career, and counseling services that will be provided through ASAP will help support improved degree attainment and graduation rates.
Adams State COSI Grants Director Trudy Chávez said it is a privilege to continue offering intentional programming and financial assistance to the COSI cohort with a more structured approach. The upcoming season will bring many advantages to her department. “I am looking forward to the lasting impact this funding will have on the lives of the students we serve. By investing in these individuals today, we are strengthening our community’s workforce of the future. We are ensuring our students are not only graduating but are prepared to lead, obtain a fulfilling career, care for and serve in their communities and contribute to the economy.”
President Tandberg said: “Receiving financial support through Arnold Ventures also sends a clear message to students in need of additional services that they are worthy of investment and that Arnold Ventures, Adams State, and the State of Colorado believe they are capable of realizing their academic and future professional goals. It also buoys the spirits of our faculty and staff, reminding them that our mission is valued, and their work is significant.”
About the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative
The Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative was created with the Colorado Department of Higher Education to increase the attainment of postsecondary credentials and degrees for underserved students in Colorado. The project addresses this challenge in two ways: accessibility and affordability. To increase accessibility, COSI funds programs that will help prepare students for postsecondary education, as well as support them through completion. To increase affordability, COSI provides matching funds for community scholarships.