As partnership manager for AdviseMI, John Folsom focuses on the development and supervision of AdviseMI college advisers, as well as managing relationships with the program’s partner schools across the state.

Prior to coming to MCAN, John spent 26 years as a teacher and administrator in Bay City Public Schools. Most recently, he served as an assistant principal at Bay City Western High School, where he led a team in advancing its college-going culture. They developed college fairs in the fall and a skilled trades fair in the spring, expanded career-focused course offerings, and strengthened partnerships with the two local higher education institutions and the Bay Area Community Foundation. In addition, a section of the school was transformed into the "Beyond High School Boulevard" where students and staff can use the space to host college-going activities and events.

As the child of two college graduates, John’s postsecondary attendance was never a question. He initially aspired to study architecture in college, but with little guidance on navigating his college transition, John arrived at Central Michigan University without a clear direction. After eight and a half years of classes and over 200 credits earned, John graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education. He then went on to earn a Master of Arts in Athletic Administration, also from CMU. While teaching in the Bay City Public Schools, John developed a love for curriculum development and data analysis, and he returned to school to obtain a Specialist in Education degree from Saginaw Valley State University. The lack of guidance during John’s transition to college meant extra time and increased student debt, and he uses that experience to help high school students make informed decisions about their postsecondary plans.

John is married and has two children. His oldest is serving in the Marine Corps with aspirations of becoming a welder, while his youngest child is a junior at Saginaw Valley State University. Outside of work, John enjoys watching sports, camping, and spending time with his family.