“We’re taking on this initiative to try to identify and reach those students in the community who have previously earned college credits. We hope that we can help these students come back and complete their degrees,” said presidents Thomas Haas of Grand Valley and David Rule of MCC.
Under the agreement, Grand Valley and MCC will expand existing collaborations to provide public, educational offerings leading to degree completion to students living in Muskegon and northern Ottawa Counties. The two institutions will begin research on educational needs and expectations in the area by June 2008 and develop a degree completion program if there is sufficient need.
In October, Grand Valley began a similar initiative with Grand Rapids Community College in Holland.
“With this new initiative, Grand Valley is continuing to respond to the needs of Lakeshore communities for access to higher education opportunities,” said Haas. “We’re working hard to answer the Cherry Commission's call to Michigan's colleges and universities to strengthen Michigan’s economy by helping those adults who have earned college credits in the past finish their degrees and advance their career opportunities."
MCC's president welcomed the new initiative. "I look forward to working with Grand Valley to expand our joint program offerings," Rule said. "Michigan's new economy depends on a well educated work force, and flexible college degree programs to help students succeed."
AUDIO CLIPS:
- Grand Valley State University President Thomas Haas said the
partnership will help adults earn a 4-year degree.
- President Haas said Grand Valley and MCC are
committed to retraining the adult learner for the new economy.
- Muskegon Community College President David Rule said the new
agreement strengthens the relationship between Grand Valley and MCC.
- Rule said the flexible college degree programs will help students succeed.
