Stark State receives $2.5 million grant to leverage AI for student academic and career success

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, Sept. 24, 2026 – With $2,534,893 in Title III funding from the U.S. Department of Labor, Stark State College will launch its groundbreaking SPARC (Successful Pathways to AI-Ready Careers) project. The five-year project will leverage AI to improve enrollment, retention and graduation rates and fill in-demand jobs in the region.

“This strategic initiative aligns with employers’ talent needs, our state’s goals and the College’s mission of providing excellent education that benefits students, employers and the communities we serve,” said Para M. Jones, Ph.D., president of Stark State College. “SPARC will harness the power of AI to support our students in the classroom and in their work-based learning programs. Moreover, we will use the power of AI to provide data and information to enhance our educational and workforce programs.”

Stark State’s SPARC project will assist faculty in integrating AI into teaching and learning and embed employer-led, career-specific AI competencies into high-demand programs. The project will use AI to improve student support services and tutoring. It will also enhance career services, expand partnerships with employers, particularly smaller companies, and provide data and information to improve student academic and career success.

“As we build new capabilities across our institution, we are creating more opportunities for students to succeed in the classroom, thrive in their careers and adapt to a rapidly changing workforce,” said Dr. Jones. “This project will have a positive impact on the futures of our students, employers and communities.”