Kentucky high school students, who plan to begin their educational journey at a community college and transfer to a four-year university, will  have  a convenient way to get a jump start on their college planning next month

On Wednesday, March 6, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST, the state’s colleges and universities will host “Transfer Madness,” the first entirely online, statewide transfer fair where students can chat online with transfer advisors, search for scholarships, download materials and get questions answered.

Students can register early for Transfer Madness at www.transfermadness.org.

Lt. Governor Jerry Abramson announced the event a news conference at the Capitol Wednesday. He was joined by Bob King, president of the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), Dr. Jay Box, chancellor of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), as well as several transfer students, who spoke on the importance of transfer to their educational and career goals. Legislators and representatives from the 25 participating universities and KCTCS also attended.

“I applaud our education partners for helping promote awareness about the seamless transition from high school to community and technical colleges to our four-year institutions,” said Lt. Gov. Abramson. “The best way to improve the quality of Kentucky’s workforce and give our companies strong employees is through a top-notch education system that aggressively promotes a college-going culture that has no barriers in credit transfers.”

Organizers hope the convenience of an online transfer fair will boost student participation since students can access the event from the comfort of their home and at a time that suits their family and work schedules.

“We are excited to bring together colleges and universities with our education partners to smooth the transfer process for students,” said King. “Transfer Madness supports the state’s Stronger by Degrees strategic plan as well as House Bill 160, both of which call for improving the quality of Kentucky’s workforce by increasing the number of Kentuckians who earn a bachelor’s degree. Starting at KCTCS is a great way to help achieve that goal.”

To register for the event and prizes, and to view the list of the participating colleges, universities and education partners, go to http://transfermadness.org/.