April 2025: Community College Month

WHEREAS, there are 31 Community and Tribal colleges in Michigan providing job training for students to ensure the sustainability of Michigan’s workforce for the years to come; and,

WHEREAS, Community College Month is a time for us to acknowledge community colleges and the important contributions they make to the richness and accessibility of post-secondary education; and,

WHEREAS, the leaders and staff of Michigan’s community colleges are fully devoted to the praiseworthy mission of providing relevant academic and technical coursework leading to industry-recognized credentials; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan’s outstanding community colleges enroll 283,000 students, grant 20,200 degrees each year, 10,500 certificates each year, and 52% of students who earn bachelor’s degrees in Michigan have completed courses at a community college; and,

WHEREAS, The Michigan Achievement Scholarship Community College Guarantee has benefited over 18,200 students, saving families an average of nearly $2,133 per semester, thereby expanding access to higher education and strengthening the state’s skilled workforce; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception in February 2021, Michigan Reconnect has enabled more than 66,500 Michiganders, including 12,500 aged 21-24, to enroll in community or Tribal colleges tuition-free, with over 8,100 individuals having successfully earned their credentials; and

WHEREAS, investing in community colleges helps meet the real and immediate challenges to economic development, student achievement, and competitiveness; and,

WHEREAS, students of all ages and backgrounds who attend community and tribal colleges receive a superb education and earn degrees, certificates, and training that help them become skilled members of a workforce that powers economic growth and encourages learning and culture; and, 

WHEREAS, the strength and success of Michigan’s community colleges, the vitality of its communities, and the effectiveness of our American society depend upon Michigan’s strong community and tribal colleges;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, and Garlin Gilchrist II, lieutenant governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2025 as Community College Month in Michigan.