ASCEND Advantage Toledo
ASCEND stands for Applied Skills for Career Experience, Networking and Development.
ASCEND is more than just a requirement—it is a commitment to ensuring every student graduates with the experience and connections needed to launch a successful career. By integrating real-world application into the academic journey, we bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional world.
Why ASCEND?
President Holloway announced his three-pronged strategy to the university and community in his inaugural speech in October 2025. The strategy, also referred to as launchpads, include Advantage Toledo, Healthy Toledo and Innovate Toledo. ASCEND is the initiative and team, under the direction of the Office of the Provost, behind Advantage Toledo. ASCEND is based on three principles:
Career Confidence
We don't just hand you a diploma and wish you luck; we help you start your career. ASCEND makes sure every student is on a path that prepares them to succeed in a real job from the very first day after graduation.Ìý
Beyond the Classroom
The best way to learn is to actually do the work. By getting you out of the classroom and into real-world projects, you'll build the practical habits and hands-on skills you need to thrive in life after college.Ìý
Every Student. Every Major
ASCEND ensures that every bachelor degree-seeking student, regardless of their major, gets to complete a professional, hands-on learning experience before they graduate.
What ASCEND Means For You
For Students
Gain the competitive edge. ASCEND turns your education into experience, ensuring you
graduate with a resume that speaks for itself.
For Employers
Hire with confidence. °µÍø½ûÇø graduates have already proven themselves in clinicals,
co-ops, and labs through our mandatory experiential learning requirement.
For the Community
The University FOR Toledo. ASCEND strengthens our region by preparing a workforce
ready to address local and global challenges.Ìý
Resources
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