OFIC & The Nord Family Foundation Featured in Ohio Business Magazine’s Ohio’s Guide to Colleges and Universities 2023
In Ohio, only 38% of the workforce possesses a two or four-year degree or a certified marketable skill, falling short of the projected 65% demand. OFIC is committed to ensuring that every student enrolled in one of its 33 member campuses has the opportunity to complete their college education. Collaborating with corporations and foundations, OFIC works to make this vision a reality by promoting affordable education made possible through scholarships and funding, dedicated to fostering a comprehensive independent collegiate experience.
OFIC's statistics reveal that 52% of students at member campuses graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years, surpassing the 36% rate at public institutions. Moreover, OFIC campuses graduate 38% of students of color, compared to 29% at public colleges. The mission of OFIC is to advance equity, expand access to opportunities, and foster thriving and inclusive communities, a mission supported by numerous donors, including The Nord Family Foundation.
Since 1988, The Nord Family Foundation has contributed over $145 million to various charitable endeavors, with a focus on giving back to the local community, particularly Lorain students. The foundation emphasizes the personal touch in their work, hosting annual dinners to meet recipients and witness the impact of their contributions firsthand.
In addition to scholarships, OFIC plays a vital role in establishing internship programs, exemplified by The Nord Family Foundation's pilot initiative in Lorain County. This initiative aims to cultivate a talent pipeline by providing students with invaluable work experience while supporting nonprofit organizations. Collaborations like OFIC and The Nord Family Foundation contribute to addressing Ohio’s workforce needs, fortifying a more robust and skilled talent pipeline in the process.
For more information about The Nord Family Foundation and OFIC, read the full article here.