Athens State University recently announced that it has entered into a new learning partnership with the Limestone County Economic Development Association. Benefits of learning partnerships include a 10 percent tuition discount on all classes, waived application fee, and complimentary evaluation of previously earned educational credits and training/professional certifications/portfolio for consideration of transfer credit. These benefits will extend to the parents, spouse, and children of the learning partner employee/member.

The mission of LCEDA is to create jobs in Limestone County, Ala., by recruiting new business and industry and by fostering the expansion of existing industries.

“This learning partnership marks a transformative step towards empowering our community through education, workforce development, and collaborative initiatives,” said Limestone County Economic Development Association president and CEO Bethany Shockney. “The tuition discount helps students thrive and industries flourish with a highly-skilled workforce in Athens and Limestone County.”

“We are pleased to partner with the Limestone County Economic Development Association in providing education assistance opportunities for the association and their members,” said Dr. Keith Ferguson, vice president for university advancement. “The Learning Partnership program offered through Athens State University allows not only the employees, but their immediate family members, reduced tuition costs as they further develop their skills through higher education.”

LCEDA joins a list of other corporate partners that can be found at www.athens.edu/learningpartners.