GVSU, MCC expand Muskegon, North Ottawa degree opportunities

MUSKEGON, Mich. — Grand Valley State University and Muskegon Community College are kicking off a new initiative to help non-traditional students earn degrees. The initiative is aimed primarily at adults in the Muskegon and Grand Haven areas who have already earned some college credit.

“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.

COVERAGE OP: Grand Valley President Thomas J. Haas and Muskegon Community College President David L. Rule will sign an agreement Thursday January 17 at 2 p.m. in Caesar Lounge on the MCC Main Campus. The location is at the south end of the campus, through the main entrance at the first driveway. Media coverage is encouraged.

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."