Fostering Achievement Network

In the fall of 2020, an Ohio State University student founded the Fostering Achievement Network (FAN) on the Columbus campus. FAN was designed to help current and former foster youth navigate higher education. Unfortunately, after the student graduated, the organization did not have the support to sustain itself. 

In 2023, The Ohio State University-Columbus Campus earned the Ohio REACH Postsecondary designation from the Ohio Department of

Higher Education (ODHE). Along with the state designation, the Columbus campus has the university’s support for former foster youth. The Columbus campus is revitalizing the Fostering Achievement Network as a campus-wide initiative.

FAN is a purpose-driven program that offers a unique educational experience. It incorporates academic success coaching, mentors, a trained Peer Resource Navigator from iFoster/TAY AmeriCorps, monthly Lunch and Learn opportunities, and additional support services to eliminate barriers to opportunities, thus allowing students to meet their full potential. Students can engage with FAN in various ways, from participating in an Early Arrival Program (EAP) to participating in a year-round FAN Scholars Program or engaging on an as-needed basis.

Campus Champions are experts in their department or unit who want to help support students formerly in foster care, kinship care, or another out-of-home placement. They will serve as a primary point of contact for FAN staff and Scholars and assist with questions or needs that their department handles. 

Want to get involved? Below is a list of current offices around campus with Champions. If your department isn't on the list, we want you! Already see your department or unit represented? No worries! We still want you, too!

• Advising
• Buckeye Careers
• Counseling and Consultation Services
• Dennis Learning Center
• Disability Services
• Housing and Residence Education
• ODI Reimagining the Student Experience (RiSE)
• ODI Scholarship and Supplemental Academic Services
• Procurement
• Student Advocacy
• Student Financial Aid
• Student Wellness Center
• Undergraduate Admissions

The goal is to have Champions across all of Ohio State. And once you become a Champion, you will receive all the necessary support and resources in your role from my team.

Become a FAN Champion now

• Identify as someone with lived experience in foster care, kinship care or any out-of-home placement.
• Must enroll in at least six semester hours at The Ohio State University, Columbus campus.

As a member of the Fostering Achievement Network, you’ll enjoy a variety of benefits designed to support your journey at The Ohio State University:

• Scholarship and Financial Aid Counseling: Get expert advice on scholarships and financial aid from ODI’s dedicated Scholarship Services team.
• Additional Scholarship Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to explore even more scholarship options to support your education.
• Program-Specific Federal Work-Study: Take advantage of program specific work-study opportunities.
• Supplemental Academic Services: Access resources like ODI’s Tutoring Program and Supplemental Instruction to boost learning.
• Peer Resource Navigator: You'll be paired with a Peer Resource Navigator who will guide you through campus life and help you make connections.
• Academic Success Coaching: Benefit from one-on-one coaching to help you excel and reach your academic goals.
• Social Engagement Activities: Get involved and make new friends through fun events and activities tailored for all!
• Invitations to ODI Events: Participate in events and workshops that enhance your college experience and expand your network.
• Global Education Support: Access resources that help you explore global learning opportunities.