Over a hundred college bound students were welcomed on August 11 in a celebration as they prepare to attend college with support from the Detroit Promise scholarship, a key program supported by MEEF. The program, administered by the Detroit Regional Chamber, guarantees a tuition-free path to a participating college or university to qualifying Detroit high school graduates.
This year, over 700 Detroit graduates will attend tuition free: 200 are registered to attend a four year Michigan University and another 515 plan to attend one of five participating colleges in Southeast Michigan.
“It’s a wonderful achievement to be a Detroit Promise scholar. The program will alleviate the financial pressure of paying for college and allow me to concentrate on my school work,” said Brandy Beckwell, a graduate of Renaissance High School who plans to study public relations at Michigan State University. “I hope to take the support the Detroit Promise has given me, not only financially but emotionally, and to give back to the community and city that I love,” she said.
Following the presentations, students met with representatives from Eastern Michigan University, Michigan State University, Oakland University, University of Michigan, UM-Dearborn, University of Detroit Mercy, and Western Michigan University to learn about student success programs that will support their transition to college. These programs are an important part of helping Detroit youth stay in school and complete their degree. MEEF provides support for the college success programs at participating community colleges, while the Universities provide their own programs.
See coverage by the Detroit Regional Chamber for more details.