Terrace, BC – In March 2025, the Province of British Columbia announced available one-time funding to support Adult Basic Education (ABE) pathways at post-secondary institutions. Coast Mountain College (CMTN) will receive just over $100,000 for a 16-month adult upgrading educational advisor position, following a proposal submission highlighting the needs of prospective students in northwest BC.
The adult upgrading educational advisor will provide a single-point of contact for adult learners who need to bridge academic gaps in English, math, or science in order to transition into further post-secondary studies or complete their Adult Dogwood Diploma. This advisor will be available to support learners with their applications and course planning, academic support, and career guidance.
According to Colin Elliott, Dean of Business, Access Education, and IT Programs at CMTN, the position was created to address a critical gap in student enrolment and is modeled after successful initiatives at other institutions.
“Currently, many students who apply to Adult Upgrading do not follow through to register in classes,” Elliott says. “This position will provide personal outreach and support to students who are interested in upgrading, as well as to those interested in other programs but who lack key prerequisites.” A dedicated advisor at CMTN will help guide prospective students through the application and registration process and address any concerns they may have, making the adult upgrading program more accessible and increasing the number of students who successfully transition into adult learning.
This new role will be filled by Madison Greening, CMTN alumnus and former student engagement officer for the Terrace Campus. Greening says her experience working with current CMTN students gives her valuable insight into what students need to succeed. She is excited to work more closely with individuals to support their learning goals.
“This position offers a valuable opportunity for me to connect more directly with students and provide the one-on-one support that can make a significant difference in their educational journey,” Greening says. “I hope to be the friendly face that helps guide students from the initial idea of upgrading to putting that plan into action and supporting them every step of the way.”
Elliott emphasizes that the most important aspect of the role is that students have a single point of contact and a specific name and face for the ABE program—someone approachable and supportive throughout their entire journey. With this new role in place, CMTN is poised to better meet the needs of adult learners and foster greater access to post-secondary education across the northwestern region of BC.
If you have any questions about Adult Upgrading at CMTN, you can reach Madison Greening at mgreening@coastmountaincollege.ca or by phone toll free at 1.877.277.2288, extension 5342.
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Media Contact:
Lucy Stanford
Interim Manager, Marketing and Communications
lstanford@coastmountaincollege.ca