More than 280,000 individuals in Maine began their college journey but left without a degree. A new program aims to get them back on track with financial support, scholarships, and tailored services. Each student in the initiative will also be assigned a personal advisor.

Starting in January, the University of Maine will launch an adult completion program to support stopped-out learners across the state. The program will provide personalized aid and services to ensure they leave with a degree or credential.

Mainers were given an update this week on a program aimed at helping parents and guardians with needs at home, so they can earn the degree on which they've set their sights. Sandra Butler of the University of Maine and Luisa Deprez of the University of Southern Maine presented findings to the Maine Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee on Thursday, looking at the first two years of the Build HOPE program.