CUMU Conference 2019

Temple University Pan African Studies Community Education Program (PASCEP) was coalesced from the vision of Annie D. Hyman, a TU School of Social Work graduate, to gain access of resources from the university for the community. In collaboration with the then Pan African Studies Department, administrators, faculty, staff and community professionals provided continuing education and noncredit courses at no cost or a nominal fee to community learners. The programs educational foundation utilized cultural sensitivity and trauma informed care by teaching the community about their history from Africa to the civil unrest in North Philadelphia. 40 years later, PASCEP continues to meet the need of the community through data driven strategies that includes workforce development, adult basic education and transition to higher education for nontraditional students. Through intentional coordinated alignment among the university colleges, workforce, economic development, community organizations and other stakeholders, PASCEP developed a Workforce Connection Hub as an access point for community members. Community Thursday provides opportunities to address trending topics, community centered concerns and facilitates civic discourse and information. Evening Classes provide noncredit courses and certifications that develop personal, professional and organizations efficiency. The programs target audience includes: returning citizens, disabilities including mental health, adult literacy learners, unemployed and underemployed in the eight zip codes around the University.