New London — New London’s College Access Program, launched in 2011 as a pilot to help first-generation and low-income students enroll and succeed in college, is changing its name to Higher Edge.

The professional non-profit group now has four full-time employees and is expanding its services to 65 college-bound students. In two years, 98 percent of students served have enrolled directly in college following high school and 86% went on to a second year at school.

Higher Edge will highlight its two-year milestone and the success of its students with a rebranding celebration 5:30 p.m. Thursday (Dec 5) at the Garde Arts Center, 305 State St.

State Sen. Andrea Stillman, D-20th and chair of the Education Committee, and Simon Moore, executive director of College Visions, will speak.

The new name, Higher Edge, provides an all-encompassing identity for the organization, which is the only one of its kind in eastern Connecticut.

“What started as the CAP has truly been remarkable. It gives me pride to see a hometown organization growing and helping lead the state’s conversation on college access and success, ” Board of Education chairman Margaret Curtin said in a prepared statement.

Refreshments will be provide and an exhibit will feature highlights of the organization’s growth and future plans. Students also will be available to talk about their experiences.