2026-130

Motion Introduced by: Curriculum and Academic Programs Committee

Date of First Reading: April 27, 2026

Date of Second Reading: August 31, 2026

Title of Motion: Request from Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation – Division for Advancing Education Policy, Practice and Leadership – for the establishment of a graduate certificate – Certificate in Youth-Serving Workforce Foundations

Action Requested: This curricular proposal has received all college, school, unit and university administrative approvals, and is being presented to the Senate for review and voting decision.   

Rationale: The program supports early-career professionals who already have an undergraduate degree by building sector-specific competencies and durable skills that strengthen their impact with youth, families, and communities. Through coursework shaped by cross-sector partnerships, students engage in applied learning experiences aligned to three outcomes. First, students will develop foundational perspectives on the role and contributions of the youth-serving workforce by analyzing positive youth development frameworks, reviewing global best practices, examining strategies for fostering developmental relationships and belonging, and exploring how these relationships cultivate durable skills. Second, students will apply theories and methods for workforce advancement by integrating insights from the Science of Learning and Development, employing youth participatory action research (YPAR) practices to elevate youth voice, and using human-centered design to improve programs and systems. Third, students will design and lead innovations in youth-serving settings by gaining an understanding of nonprofit management and leadership, implementing strategies to strengthen collaboration across education and community systems, and measuring the impact of evidence-based practices.