Prosperity 2020 has set the ambitious goal to ensure that two-thirds of all Utahns over the age of 20 have a skilled trade certificate or a college degree by 2020. To do that, we’ll need to improve across the board–including the graduation rate of women.

Utah Valley University just completed a two-year project, hosting the Utah Women and Education Project (UWEP). The purpose of the was to lead efforts within the state to understand and motivate more young women to enter and stay in school long enough to obtain college degrees.

To effectively move forward in any type of change intervention, thorough research must be conducted to understand these complex issues within the lives of young women and within their families, schools, and communities. This project is focused on conducting research, disseminating findings, initiating dialogue, providing resources, and leading change.