Latest news with #MichiganReconnect
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Whitmer wants more outreach to young men about higher education programs in Michigan
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive Thursday calling on state agencies to reach out to young men about programs that could help them obtain college degrees or skills certificates, part of a recently outlined goal to close a gender gap in Michigan's higher education settings. Such a gender gap is evident in state educational data — as of the 2022-2023 academic year, 53% of students enrolled in undergraduate programs at Michigan universities or community colleges were women, compared to 39% of students being men, according to the state Center for Educational Performance and Information. That gap is even wider, the governor's office says, in the state's tuition-free Michigan Reconnect program for adults looking for a degree at a community college or a skills certificate at a trade school. The program, launched in 2021, provides scholarships to adults 25 and older who don't have a postsecondary certificate to cover tuition costs at a local community college or trade school. It received bipartisan support at its inception and one point was even expanded to include individuals 21 and older, although the program is now back at its original 25-and-up age limit. Right now, close to 130,000 people are enrolled in either the Reconnect program or the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, according to the governor's office. Two out of every three enrollees in the Reconnect program last year were women, a disparity state officials believe could be due to a lack of outreach. "This program is open to everyone, but men just aren't signing up," Whitmer said at a Thursday morning event at Oakland Community College livestreamed by WWMT-3. "We think it's because a lot of people just don't know about this opportunity, and that's why this executive directive is really important. We want more men to use programs like Reconnect so they can go to college and learn more and earn more." The Michigan Achievement Scholarship, also set to be highlighted under the executive directive, allows recent high school graduates to receive funds to attend universities, community colleges or enroll in a skills program. The program was launched in 2022. In her State of the State speech in February, Whitmer said she would be issuing such a directive to make an effort to reach more young men about higher education options in Michigan. Closing the gender gap in higher education, Whitmer argued, will lead to higher earning potential. When Whitmer came into office in 2019, she outlined a goal of increasing the percentage of adults in Michigan with some sort of postsecondary certificate to 60% by 2030. In 2019, the share of adults with such a certificate was 45%, according to the governor's office. In February, the proportion was 52%, Whitmer said at an event at Grand Rapids Community College. Widening gender gaps in higher education isn't a trend limited to Michigan. A 2023 analysis of census data by the Pew Research Center found young men made up 44% of college students nationally, down from 47% in 2011. More: Trump welcomes Whitmer to White House: 'She's really been doing an excellent job' Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@ This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Whitmer: Michigan isn't informing enough young men about scholarships
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Michigan offers unemployment assistance and career services for laid off federal workers
Connor Phillips, 25, told a crowd at a rally for federal workers that he's losing his unpaid research training position at the National Institutes of Health, where he studies therapies for children with cerebral palsy. Phillips, who has benefited from cerebral palsy treatment, attended the rally outside the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 19, 2025. (Photo by Ashley Murray/States Newsroom) As layoffs from the federal government have upended the lives of thousands of individuals across the country, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, also known as LEO, has collected a list of resources to help them find new opportunities. By visiting federal workers who lost their jobs can find assistance in seeking unemployment benefits, career services, alongside listings for jobs in both the public and private sectors. 'Federal workers who reside in Michigan and have been impacted by recent layoffs can tap into our resources to ensure they have what they need at this time,' LEO Director Susan Corbin said in a statement. 'Our department is working to ensure laid off federal workers can access services – including filing for unemployment and searching for a new job – to help them on a pathway to new opportunities and a brighter future in Michigan.' With the Trump administration and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency cutting thousands of jobs, governors in several states, including Hawaii, New Mexico, New York, Maryland and Virginia, are encouraging federal workers to fill vacancies in their own governments. A coalition of 20 state attorneys general is also challenging the Trump administration's decision to lay off roughly 24,000 probationary government employees, with Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel calling the firings illegal and are 'likely to cripple important federal initiatives throughout the country and in Michigan.' Alongside offering a six-step roadmap on applying for federal unemployment benefits the site also includes a link to schedule coaching sessions to assist in the claims process alongside a link to schedule an appointment with the unemployment agency to meet by phone, in person or virtually. Federal employees left without work can seek career services through Michigan Works! agencies by calling 800-285-9675. The site also lists resources for adult education, including information on the Michigan Reconnect program which provides individuals 25 or older without a degree access to tuition-free community college to facilities in their district and large discounts when attending community college outside of their district. Additionally, the site lists resources for food and housing assistance, transportation resources and job readiness resources for those returning to work. The Department also provides the link to both the state's list of open jobs, as well as a link to Pure Michigan Talent Connect, a database aiming to connect job seekers with employers. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Yahoo
01-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
North Central Michigan College reports 5% enrollment increase for winter semester
PETOSKEY — North Central Michigan College saw a 5% enrollment increase this winter compared to last year, according to a release from the college. The college reported 1,722 students enrolled for Winter 2025, with a 5% rise in returning students and a 10% increase in full-time students. School officials said the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship, which offers tuition-free and reduced-cost degrees for eligible Michiganders without a college credential, has contributed to the increase in adult student enrollment. The number of traditional-aged students (18-24) rose by 7%, while adult learners (25 and older) increased by 6%. Additionally, 80% of students who enrolled in Fall 2024 returned for the Winter 2025 semester. 'This enrollment growth demonstrates that more students see the value of a North Central credential,' Erin Sonneveldt, associate dean of Institutional Research and Assessment, said in the release. 'Our commitment to affordability, accessibility and career-driven education — supported by programs like Michigan Reconnect — is making a real difference in student success and retention.' Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our local coverage Beyond traditional degree programs, North Central serves nearly 200 students annually through Fast Track career programs and offers more than 8,500 learners access to Lifelong Learning opportunities. Registration for the Fall 2025 semester begins March 12 and Summer 2025 registration is currently open. — This story was created by reporter Karly Graham, kgraham@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: North Central Michigan College reports 5% enrollment increase for winter semester 2025
Yahoo
05-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Reaction to Gov. Whitmer's proposed budget
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Reaction to for 2026 is coming in. Below are a few of the statements 6 News has received. There is no excuse for the continued failures of the Whitmer Administration to provide direct support to students struggling to learn and teachers struggling to teach,' said DeShone. 'Our students are 45th in the nation for 4th-grade reading proficiency, the state of Michigan spends over $20 billion on the education system, the student population in public education continues to decline, and the money going to bloated administrative positions continues to increase. You would think Governor Whitmer would finally get the memo that the system is broken and throwing more money at it will do nothing to help. Additionally, she continues to pick winners and losers amongst our students by cutting funding for students who attend full-time online cyber charter schools, while fully funding full-time online learners in union-run public schools. Great Lakes Education Project (GLEP) Executive Director Beth DeShone The 15 state universities of Michigan enthusiastically commend Governor Whitmer's proposed investments for higher education as outlined in her fiscal year 2026 executive budget four percent increase in institutional operating support combined with the continued build out of the Michigan Achievement Scholarship will help ensure the positive trajectory achieved in recent years, reflecting the state's commitment to improving college access and governor's proposed funding framework will better enable the universities to continue delivering high-quality academic programs aligned to Michigan's fast-evolving, knowledge economy workforce needs. These investments will go a long way toward helping the universities build on their collective multi-year increase in student enrollment and continued progress in increasing educational attainment levels among Michigan and the state universities look forward to working with state legislators in the weeks and months ahead to advocate for a final budget that strengthens college access, student success, talent and economic development, and the ability for these institutions to maximize their ability to serve individuals, communities and the state. The Michigan Association of State Universities We appreciate Governor Whitmer's steadfast commitment to ensuring Michigan's high school graduates and adults have access to life-changing student financial aid, including the Community College Guarantee and Michigan Reconnect. These initiatives open essential pathways for students to acquire the training and credentials needed for high-demand jobs that pay sustainable wages and address local workforce the Michigan Achievement Scholarship permanent—including the Community College Guarantee—will provide much-needed certainty to students and their families as they explore a range of community college options, including workforce training programs, skilled trades certifications, and associate degrees, all of which can lead to high-demand careers or serve as steppingstones toward a bachelor's governor's proposed 4 percent increase to support community college operations will help strengthen colleges' ability to offer affordable, high-quality training programs, contributing to a skilled workforce that drives Michigan's are also pleased to see continued investments in college access and success, including efforts to boost FAFSA completion rates and support for organizations like the Michigan College Access Network. These investments play a vital role in ensuring that students can access state scholarships and the resources they need to succeed. Michigan Community College Association President Brandy Johnson State funding is critical to the health and viability of Michigan hospitals and their patients. This budget presented by the Whitmer administration today maintains stability for healthcare providers across Michigan. We appreciate the continued protection of funding pools that preserve access to care for Michiganders, whether they require obstetrical services, care at rural and critical access hospitals or coverage from the Healthy Michigan Plan and Michigan's Medicaid health plans. We are also encouraged to see continued attention towards issues that impact Michigan's talent pipeline and remove barriers towards pursuing healthcare touches us all, regardless of political affiliation, and we look forward to working with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle during the budget process to make sure Michiganders, their communities and healthcare providers receive the funding support they need. Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association Launch Michigan applauds Governor Whitmer's state budget recommendation which includes historic investments in early childhood, K-12, and postsecondary education, additional funding for efficiencies and consolidation efforts, and increased transparency measures, holding the state accountable for better preparing our children for life beyond high school. But we have more work to do. Despite historic education funding, Michigan students are falling behind those in other states and we need a bipartisan commitment to bold, systemic change to reverse the slide. The proposed investments are a step toward reinventing Michigan's education system and giving every student, in every corner of the state, the tools to succeed. We need our state policy leaders to take resolute action toward the fundamental system changes that are needed to make statewide looking forward to working side by side with the governor, legislature, and education stakeholders to get these important initiatives across the finish line to uplift Michigan students and the future of our state. Venessa Keesler, president and CEO of Launch Michigan Over the past two years, Gov. Whitmer and her Democrat trifecta lived fat off of bloated budgets built on the backs of Michigan taxpayers. They blew through a historic $9 billion surplus, imposed a $700 million income tax hike on Michigan workers and raided $670 million from the teacher pension fund — all while ignoring necessary investments in our local roads, critical bridges and struggling President Trump is leading from the front and cutting massive amounts of waste at the federal level. It's time for Michigan Democrats to heed the mandate issued by voters: No more corporate handouts, no more anonymous pet projects, and no more giveaways to radical far-left next budget must roll back the size of government and overspending. It must provide funding to fix our crumbling roads and bridges, keep our communities safe and help students who are falling behind in basic math and reading; and it must reduce the tax burden on hardworking Michiganders who need more of their own money to feed their families and heat their homes. It's time to prioritize Michigan taxpayers over special interest tax-takers.' Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Porter Township The governor seems to have learned nothing from the recent presidential election. Michigan voters elected Donald Trump last fall on a promise of more freedom and more efficiency, yet the governor's bloated budget doubles down on the failed liberal mandates of more government, more spending, and more six years of this governor, our road quality ranks 40th in the country. This is after the governor blew through a $9 billion surplus two years ago, raised income taxes by $700 million last year and now plans on exhausting an expected $1 billion surplus this year. That's $10.7 billion in extra spending over three years with virtually nothing to show for it.I support the per-pupil increase for schools, but improving education is more than just spending more money. Republicans increased funding for students each year, but under this governor, more dollars are being spent outside of the classroom, and as a result, Michigan students continue to fall behind. Recent test scores show that only 25% of Michigan fourth graders are able to read at grade level, and Michigan's fourth grade reading ranking fell from 21st in the nation in 2022 to 32nd in 2024. That's unacceptable.I will fight for a responsible state budget that invests in our students and local roads, protects our communities, and makes our government more cost-effective and efficient —and does it all while providing crucial relief for all Michigan taxpayers. Sen. Joseph Bellino, R-Monroe Michigan College Access Network fully supports the historic educational investments in Gov. Whitmers budget proposal,' said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director. 'To compete in the global economy, Michigan needs to build a flexible, well-educated workforce that is ready for the challenges of tomorrow. This budget demonstrates the governors commitment to our future by supporting increased college readiness, participation and completion. The investments outlined in this budget would strengthen our K-12 system, expand financial aid options and provide additional support for populations that are underrepresented in college — especially low-income individuals, those who would be first-generation college-going students and people of color. As the House and Senate prepare their own budget proposals, we encourage bipartisan cooperation to craft a final budget that invests in our residents success and provides improved economic opportunities for all Michiganders through college access and success.' Michigan College Access Network Executive Director Ryan Fewins-Bliss Over the past two years, my Democratic colleagues and I have used the state budget as a tool to uplift Michiganders through historic, long-overdue investments in every corner of our state. I'm proud of the results we've delivered for the people of Michigan. From 4-year-olds to 64-year-olds, auto workers to nurses, the investments we have made bring us one step closer to ensuring everyone has the skills they need for the life they want. I'm encouraged to see some of the Senate's priorities reflected in the governor's recommendations today — improving access to diverse, affordable housing options; strengthening education and investing in our workforce; and lowering costs for hardworking families. I look forward to working with Gov. Whitmer to build on our past successes, and I welcome Chair Bollin to the budget process with the hope that we will approach it with the same sense of integrity, fiscal responsibility, and commitment to delivering for every Michigander. Senate Appropriations Chair Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
