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Jul 16, 2025
MCAN raises concerns for students, families over federal budget reconciliation
“Big Beautiful Bill” threatens additional financial pressure for vulnerable groups
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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.
Kate Snyder

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.

Michelle Rahl

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.

Alessandra Cipriani-Detres

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.
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.

Federal AmeriCorps cuts strain college access for local students

The Port Huron Times Herald

When Maya Savedra started as a college advisor at Port Huron Northern High School two years ago, she thought it would be a short-term role. With a degree in broadcasting and cinematic arts, the AmeriCorps position felt like a practical next step, not a calling.