Jul 16, 2025
MCAN raises concerns for students, families over federal budget reconciliation
“Big Beautiful Bill” threatens additional financial pressure for vulnerable groups
Press Releases
Access MCAN's press release archive for details on new and past announcements and announcements regarding higher education, advising, and grants.
“Big Beautiful Bill” threatens additional financial pressure for vulnerable groups
12 community colleges, 10 industry associations and workforce partners awarded funding to promote Michigan Reconnect.
Recently passes budget bills would upend funding models for K-12, higher education
Blog
Authored by MCAN staff, board members, and partners, our blog shares different perspectives of the college access journey in Michigan.
College remains a powerful tool in unlocking opportunities for personal and professional growth, career advancement, and financial stability. By helping students explore their options, we can help them make an informed decision about the education and skills needed to help them achieve their career goals in this ever-changing job market and economy.
It’s no secret that college affordability is a major concern for many, but the good of attending outweighs the bad. It’s insurance for a successful future, that while always uncertain, can aid in navigating that uncertainty. People with this education have the critical and foundational skills for life and work in a general sense like adaptability, which is crucial in these evolving industries.
Navigating the world of financial aid can be a daunting task for students and their families. With unfamiliar terminology, deadline pressure, and not knowing where to go for support, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are several free, reliable tools designed to help simplify the process.
In the News
Stay up-to-date on the latest in college access with announcements, blog posts, and related news from MCAN and our partners. Explore MCAN's work featured in statewide and national publications and media outlets.
Michigan Awards Nearly $1M to Students Through FAFSA Completion Initiative
Diverse Issues in Higher Education
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II joined state education leaders at Wayne State University to announce the winners, who received either $10,000 or $50,000 awards deposited into Michigan Education Savings Program accounts. The initiative, launched by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's administration in partnership with the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN), drew more than 21,000 entries from students who completed their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the first time.
A Michigan private college is closing. Why experts say others may not be far behind.
MLive
“What I’ve found when I’ve spoken to the presidents of those institutions (that have closed) and some of their trustees is that they have been privately struggling with this for years, have been doing everything they can to fight against it and had to finally give up the goat and say, ‘It’s time to close, we’re out of options,’” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, executive director of Michigan College Access Network.
‘It’s very confusing:’ Return of AmeriCorps grants doesn’t mean end to uncertainty
MLive
While some states found only a portion of their portfolios terminated, Michigan was one of 14 states that had its entire AmeriCorps portfolio eliminated. That includes $2.1 million to MCAN, which resulted in the termination of 60 AmeriCorps workers across four programs, many of whom were embedded in high schools and two-year colleges.