Thank You Tuesday | Adult Learner Initiative

At Utah Valley University, we believe learning happens everywhere — in classrooms, on job sites, in studios, and even in the quiet moments of self-study. This Thank You Tuesday, we’re shining a spotlight on the Adult Learner Initiative! Their work is a testament to UVU’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and lifelong learning — and today, we say thank you.

Since 2022, the Adult Learner Initiative has proactively worked to promote student retention and completion at UVU. The three strategic focus areas within the initiative are student support, Credit for Prior Learning, and faculty support.

“The Adult Learner Initiative in Academic Affairs is committed to promoting flexible, responsive, and barrier-reducing processes, programs, and support systems tailored to life’s complexities faced by older students,” Senior Director Wade Oliver said. “We are committed to developing strong campus partnerships to promote flexible learning options, recognition of prior learning, and real-world relevance in the classroom, bringing light and focus to the adult learner experience.”

Credit for Prior Learning: Honoring Experience, Accelerating Success

The Adult Learner Initiative has been instrumental in expanding Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), a program that recognizes the real-world knowledge our students bring to the table. Whether it’s military service, professional certifications, or years of on-the-job expertise, CPL helps adult learners convert experience into academic credit — saving time, money, and boosting confidence. It’s not just credit, it’s validation.

While still a developing arm in the Adult Learner Initiative, data shows that in the first half of 2025 (January 1-June 30), UVU has awarded over 5,000 credits to 726 students through CPL, representing approx. $1.6 million in tuition dollars saved by students.  Most of that is awarded in our Language Department, but students are receiving significant credit in approximately 75% our academic departments.

“CPL changes the game for students who have already built college-level learning outside the classroom,” Director of Student Assessment Services Colleen Sorensen said. “Many of our adult learners, transfer students, veterans, and working professionals bring years of valuable experience to UVU. CPL validates that learning by translating and assessing it for college credit. The impact is twofold: it empowers students by recognizing their hard-earned skills, and it propels them forward by reducing barriers to degree completion. For some students, CPL has meant shaving off a full semester (or more) of coursework, which can make the difference between stopping out and graduating.”

Adult Learner Support Services: Meeting Students Where They Are

Adult learners often juggle work, family, and education. The support services offered by this team are tailored to meet those unique needs. From personalized advising and flexible scheduling to career coaching and community-building events, the Adult Learner Initiative ensures that every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

A Culture of Care and Possibility

The Adult Learner Initiative doesn’t just serve students; it uplifts them. Their work embodies UVU’s core values of student success, inclusivity, and engaged learning. They remind us that education isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, and that it’s never too late to start — or restart.

“In our work in the Adult Learner Initiative and in the Credit for Prior Learning program, the core value of Exceptional Results is important because it reflects our commitment to doing work that has a meaningful and lasting impact for students,” Oliver said.

“For me, it’s about [UVU’s value of] exceptional results,” Sorensen added. “At the heart of CPL and Adult Learner Initiative is the belief that every student’s journey matters, and that we see them as whole people — not just as a transcript. By listening to their stories, honoring their prior learning, and creating pathways that respect their time and effort, we are experiencing results in action. When the student sees the approval letter that their CPL request has been granted, that makes it all worth it to me.”

Today, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire Adult Learner Initiative team. Your dedication, creativity, and compassion make UVU a place where every learner belongs. Happy Tuesday, everyone!