A new partnership between Snook Christian Academy and Columbia Southern University aims to make higher education more accessible for Baldwin County students and educators.

Through recently signed articulation agreements, CSU and Snook have created clear transfer credit pathways for Snook students, alumni and staff to pursue degrees at the Orange Beach-based university. The move is designed to reduce barriers and provide a smoother transition into college life.

As part of the agreement, Snook and CSU also launched a Learning Partnership. The program provides all Snook-affiliated applicants with a 10 percent tuition discount and the opportunity to apply for CSU's Learning Partner Scholarship, which is awarded multiple times throughout the year.

"This partnership opens doors for local high school students who may not have considered a Baldwin County college," CSU President Ken Styron said. "These efforts offer a great investment that students and the Snook staff can pursue in their own backyard."

Snook's director of advancement, Haley Gray, is already familiar with CSU from a student perspective. She's currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership at the university.

"As both a student of CSU and the advancement director at Snook, I am thrilled to see this partnership come to life," Gray said. "This is an incredible step forward for our school, and I'm excited for the future as we continue to grow and enhance educational opportunities for our students."

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local education and expanding opportunities for lifelong learning.

Snook Christian Academy is a private PK3-12th grade school in Foley focused on providing a quality Christian education. The academy offers dual enrollment and honors courses, along with a full athletics program that emphasizes teamwork and academic achievement.

Columbia Southern University, founded in 1993, is a leader in online education with degree programs in business administration, criminal justice, fire administration, military studies and occupational safety and health. CSU offers associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. For more information, visit www.ColumbiaSouthern.edu or call (877) 347-6050.

To schedule an interview or learn more about the partnership, email Brittany.Fillmore@ColumbiaSouthern.edu.