What's New in the Blog

$69,935 awarded to 10 organizations across Michigan in support of postsecondary attainment efforts 

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) has awarded $69,935 in its 11th round of COVID-19 Response Grants to 10 organizations in Michigan. These grants help Michigan high schools, Local College Access Networks, community-based nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions support emergent postsecondary projects and programs in their communities. MCAN is also now partnering with other funders to co-sponsor these grants.

For hybrid academy, the “new normal” is similar to everyday plans

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Every year, mental health organizations and individuals across the U.S. and around the world raise awareness of suicide prevention during September, National Suicide Prevention Month. One local high school counselor, Kristin Kuczera of NexTech High School of Grand Rapids, is working to make an impact in the lives of her students and beyond. 

Jeffrey Mosher chats with Mike Larson, President and CEO, Michigan Association of United Ways, Lansing MI.

New data points reveal disproportionate financial hardship in Black households across Michigan.
The Michigan Association of United Ways released new ALICE data, which shows 63% of Black households statewide are unable to make ends meet, clearly illustrating the inequities that are deeply rooted in our national, state, and local systems and institutions.

(FLINT, Mich. – Sept. 17, 2020) With school back in session, the YouthQuest afterschool program is hosting a free virtual workshop for out-of-school time professionals in Flint and Genesee County on Sept. 30. The three-hour event will focus on the importance of self-care in the time of COVID-19. 

“Today’s youth are dealing with an overwhelming amount of stress, and to be honest, so are most adults,” said Nefertari Jones, program director of YouthQuest at the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. “As educators, we must be able to understand and process our own emotions to effectively support our students. That’s why this workshop aims to help participants feel connected, valued and capable of taking on the challenges ahead.”

Coaches will assist persistence and completion efforts at community colleges across Michigan

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) is now hiring 20 college completion coaches to serve on community college campuses across Michigan. MCAN’s College Completion Corps program places full-time AmeriCorps members on campuses throughout the state. The goal of the program is to increase persistence and completion of community college among first-generation college-going students, low-income students, and students of color.

Watch Carrie Rosingana, CEO of the Capital Area Michigan Works! talk with Chris Holman on this segment of the Michigan Business Beat. Carrie catches Chris up on the importance of postsecondary education for job seekers in light of COVID-19 and how that is related to job growth. She also covers how people can learn more about skilled trades and how to receive training.

Interim school leader steps into official role 

OKEMOS, Mich. – NexTech High School of Lansing announced a new school leader for the 2020-21 academic year. Nathan Beyer, who started at NexTech Lansing in 2017 as a science teacher for the blended learning academy, transitioned from interim school leader to the official position on Sept. 2.

LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) conducted a programmed inspection of Sodecia Automotive Detroit Corp in Roseville, MI, resulting in 16 citations with penalties totaling $108,200 for failing to uphold a safe and healthy worksite, potentially leading to serious injury.

In 10 days spanning Aug. 24-Sept. 4, MCAN Executive Director Ryan Fewins-Bliss traveled to communities throughout Michigan to award 10 grants of $10,000 to 10 organizations. The $100,000 investment was part of MCAN's 10th birthday celebration and an effort to bring attention to extraordinary work taking place in the network. The grants will support college access and postsecondary attainment efforts.