Bridgeport, CT – In a landmark initiative aimed at making higher education more affordable, the University of Bridgeport (UB) and Follett Higher Education have teamed up to save students a staggering $1.9 million in educational costs. This collaboration, spanning the past academic year, has seen a significant shift in the way course materials are delivered, benefiting both students and the university.

The key to this success lies in the implementation of Follett’s innovative “inclusive access” model. This approach seamlessly integrates course materials, including textbooks and digital resources, directly into students’ learning management systems, eliminating the need for separate purchases. This not only reduces costs for students but also ensures they have access to the necessary materials from day one, fostering a more engaged and successful learning experience.

“Our partnership with Follett has been instrumental in making higher education more accessible and affordable for our students,” said Dr. John Petillo, UB’s Interim Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “By integrating course materials directly into the learning management system, we are ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed, while simultaneously easing the financial burden.”

The savings realized through this collaboration are a testament to the commitment both institutions have towards student success. With rising textbook costs being a major concern for students, UB and Follett are demonstrating a proactive approach to address this challenge.

“We believe that access to quality educational resources shouldn’t be a financial barrier,” said Chad Hartley, Follett Higher Education’s Executive Vice President of Client Solutions. “By providing students with inclusive access to course materials, we are empowering them to focus on their education and achieve their academic goals.”

The $1.9 million savings is just the beginning. UB and Follett are continuing to collaborate to expand the inclusive access model to more courses, ensuring that students across all disciplines benefit from this cost-saving initiative. This commitment to affordability aligns perfectly with UB’s mission to provide a high-quality education that is accessible to a diverse student population.

This partnership serves as a shining example of how institutions can work together to create a more equitable and affordable higher education system. By embracing innovative solutions and prioritizing student success, UB and Follett are paving the way for a brighter future for students across the nation.