Kalamazoo Times

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and The Kalamazoo Promise have been awarded a $620,000 grant from the Michigan Center for Adult College Success. This funding is intended to assist working-age adults in obtaining postsecondary degrees, contributing to a knowledge-based economy.

The grant is part of The Center's $6.4 million Innovation Investment Awards program and will support the Completing the Kalamazoo Promise initiative. This collaborative effort focuses on reengaging adult learners in the Kalamazoo area who have remaining, unused Kalamazoo Promise funds.

The initiative targets individuals aged 25 and older who are eligible for Kalamazoo Promise funds but have not yet completed their college education. Two Promise coordinators will be hired to offer personalized support to these adult learners, aiding them with reenrollment processes, credit transfers, and overcoming barriers like childcare and financial challenges.

“This grant is a game-changer for our community,” says Dr. Jason Glass of Western Michigan University. “It allows us to directly address the barriers that have prevented adult learners from completing their education.”

This program aims to increase the number of qualified workers in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology within Kalamazoo County by helping students complete their degrees or certificates.

“Kalamazoo Valley is committed to supporting lifelong learning,” states Katherine Miller from Kalamazoo Valley Community College. “We are excited to bring that expertise to the Completing the Kalamazoo Promise initiative.”

Set to launch later this year, the first cohort of adult learners is expected in spring 2025.

“Institutional collaboration is key when it comes to finding innovative solutions for adult learners seeking continuing education,” notes Von Washington Jr., CEO at The Kalamazoo Promise.

The state legislature funds these awards under The Center's administration as part of efforts toward Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal—raising the percentage of working-age adults with postsecondary credentials from 51.1% today to 60% by 2030.

“Congratulations...for recognizing that knowledge and skills are currencies of modern employment market,” says Kevin Stotts from TalentFirst.

According to Jeremy Hendges of The Center: “These evidence-based approaches are what we need...to provide adults with a college environment that will support them.”

Todd Gustafson emphasizes: “These awards are just beginning transformation needed across Michigan... an opportunity for everyone."

More details about Innovation Investment Awards can be found online along with WMU news updates.