The Faces of Our Mission series highlights Austin Community College (ACC) students and the resources that support both their academic and personal success. Throughout the series, we have celebrated the diverse experiences, perspectives, and strengths that contribute to ACC’s vibrant learning community. For August, we spotlight adult learners and recognize the determination, resilience, and lifelong commitment to growth that they bring to the classroom. Learn more about adult learners and how ACC supports students at every stage of their educational journey.

As we conclude the Faces of Our Mission series, explore all of the featured student communities and resources highlighted throughout the year. Together, these stories reflect the diversity, resilience, and achievement that define the ACC student experience.

August 2026 – Adult Learners

Adult learners return to the classroom with motivation, life experience, and goals that enrich learning for everyone. As we welcome a new academic year, we recognize the courage it takes to begin again and the power of lifelong learning.

“In fall 2024, ACC served 12,087 adult learner undergraduate credit students (i.e., students aged 25 and older), representing 30% of the undergraduate credit student population.”

“In the 2024-25 academic year, Adult Education served 6,492 students enrolled in ESL, GED, College Prep, and career training programs in high-demand fields.”

Adult learners thrive when they are supported by flexible, responsive programs that honor their life experiences, provide clear pathways to further education and employment, deliver individualized instruction and wraparound services, and cultivate a respectful, empowering environment that builds confidence and belonging— regardless of their starting skill level upon re-entering the education system.

By providing flexible learning opportunities, academic support, career-focused pathways, and student services designed to meet the realities of balancing education with work and family responsibilities, ACC empowers adult learners to achieve their goals, advance their careers, and continue their lifelong learning journeys with confidence.

Spotlight on Student Resources

Adult Career Scholars: ACC’s Adult Career Scholars program provides comprehensive financial and academic support for adult learners pursuing career training in high-demand fields. The scholarship covers tuition and fees while connecting students to personalized advising, career services, tutoring, financial guidance, enrollment assistance, and other wraparound supports. Designed with the realities of balancing work, family, and education in mind, the program offers flexible pathways that help adult learners gain the skills and credentials needed to achieve long-term career success.

Adult Education: The Adult Education programs help students build foundational skills, prepare for career and college, and achieve personal and professional goals. Through English as a Second Language (ESL), GED preparation, College Prep, and workforce training opportunities, Adult Education provides individualized instruction, supportive services, and clear pathways that help students successfully transition into higher education and employment. Beginning this fall, Adult Education will become the School of College Readiness as part of ACC’s new “School of” structure, creating a more consistent way to organize and communicate the College’s academic offerings.

Celebrating Every Story

As the Faces of Our Mission series concludes, ACC reaffirms the importance of understanding student experiences—backed by research and data—for everyone who shapes learning at the College. By celebrating cultural heritage, supporting diverse identities, and sharing practical resources, we create an inclusive educational landscape where every student can achieve their goals.

Supporting all students, all year long.