2026 Senate Resolution 109

Whereas, We are pleased to honor and salute Michigan’s 31 community and tribal colleges in recognition of Michigan Community College Month; and

Whereas, Community College Month is an appropriate time to acknowledge community colleges and the important contributions they make toward expanding access to postsecondary education and strengthening Michigan’s workforce and economy; and

Whereas, Michigan’s community colleges enroll approximately 295,000 students each year and award more than 20,000 degrees and 10,000 certificates annually, providing pathways to family-sustaining careers and continued educational attainment; and

Whereas, Our community colleges play a central role in the state’s education pipeline, serving more than 80 percent of Michigan’s dual enrollment and early middle college students and helping thousands of high school students earn college credit, credentials, and even associate degrees while still in high school; and

Whereas, Participation in dual enrollment and early middle college programs increases college enrollment, persistence, and completion, helping more Michigan students successfully transition from high school to postsecondary education and careers; and

Whereas, Michigan’s community colleges are key partners in expanding college affordability and access through initiatives such as the Michigan Achievement Scholarship Community College Guarantee, which provides tuition-free pathways for recent high school graduates to attend their local community college; and

Whereas, Community colleges are leading providers of workforce education and training, preparing students for high-demand, high-wage careers in health care, skilled trades, and advanced manufacturing, including electricians, dental hygienists, diagnostic medical sonographers, HVAC technicians, and industrial machinery mechanics; and

Whereas, Michigan’s community colleges also play a critical role in serving adult learners, including thousands of students participating in the Michigan Reconnect program, which helps adults age 25 and older earn a tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate and advance their careers; and

Whereas, Students of all ages and backgrounds who attend these exceptional institutions receive a high-

quality and affordable education and earn degrees, certificates, and training that strengthen communities and

contribute to the state’s prosperity; and

Whereas, The strength and success of Michigan’s community colleges contribute greatly to the vitality of local communities and to the economic and civic well-being of the state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body designate April 2026 as Community College Month. We encourage continued awareness of the critical role community colleges play in providing education, job training, and opportunities for Michigan students and workers; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to each Michigan community college.