Lt. Governor Gilchrist encourages Reconnect Scholarship

By Misty Barron 

UNIVERSITY CENTER – On Thursday, Feb. 2, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist visited Delta College  to mark the two year anniversary of the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship program.

Lt. Gov. Gilchrist visits Delta’s computer numerical control (CNC) lab to speak with students and faculty member Terry Morse, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone

During his tour, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist met with students taking part in trade programs by visiting the welding and computer numerical control labs. He used this opportunity to discuss with both students and instructors their experiences with the Michigan Reconnect scholarship. Many students shared their appreciation for being able to return to school thanks to the programs and shared their positive experiences.

Gilchrist opened a roundtable discussion for students by saying he and Governor Whitmer created the scholarships so Michiganders can “have the future you want and pathways to it.” 

  • Lt. Gov Gilchrist with Delta College President Gavin
    Lt. Gov. Gilchrist (left) sits with Delta College President Michael Gavin (right) and a group of Delta’s Michigan Reconnect and Future for Frontliners students to discuss the benefits of the Reconnect program as well as how it could be improved to better serve students, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone
  • Lt. Gov. Gilchrist speaks with Jim Proctor, Delta College’s associate professor of welding, as well as students in Delta’s welding lab, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone
  • Lt. Gov. Gilchrist (left) sits with Delta College President Michael Gavin (right) and a group of Delta’s Michigan Reconnect and Future for Frontliners students to discuss the benefits of the Reconnect program as well as how it could be improved to better serve students, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone
  • Lt. Gov. Gilchrist (left) visits Delta’s computer numerical control (CNC) lab to speak with students and faculty member Terry Morse (right), Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone
  • Lt. Gov. Gilchrist visits Delta’s computer numerical control (CNC) lab to speak with students and faculty member Terry Morse, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone
  • Lt. Gov. Gilchrist sits with Delta College President Michael Gavin and a group of Delta’s Michigan Reconnect and Future for Frontliners students to discuss the benefits of the Reconnect program as well as how it could be improved to better serve students, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone

Currently, the Reconnect scholarship is only available to residents who are over 25. Gilchirst spoke of plans to lower the age to 21. He also discussed the scholarship programs recent expansion to include wrap-around services to cover extra costs older students face when returning to college.

“The hardest part of school should be in the classroom,” added Delta College President Michael Gavin, before inviting participants to further share their stories and opinions.

Students raised concerns about a lack of promotion for the program, issues with dual enrollment options, and difficulties with scheduling. They also noted that many young people are unaware of the program. In response, Gilchrist encouraged them to share their experiences with the scholarship program to spread awareness.

“You telling your story is way more compelling than anything I can do,” Gilchrist shared. 

Michigan Reconnect and Future for Frontliners students pose with Lt. Gov. Gilchrist and Delta College President Michael Gavin as Lt. Gov. Gilchrist wraps up his visit to Delta College, Delta College main campus, Feb. 2, 2023; photo credit Onnie Stone

What is the Michigan Reconnect Program?

Michigan Reconnect is a tuition-free scholarship program designed to support adults over 25 years old who want to pursue higher education. The scholarship covers the cost of an associate degree or a skills certificate that is eligible for Pell Grants at Michigan’s community colleges. 

The program aims to provide access to higher education, enhance skills and support career growth in high-demand fields for Michigan residents.

The scholarship is part of Governor Whitmer’s SixtyBy30 goal, which aims to increase the number of Michigan adults with an associate degree or certification to 60% by 2030. The program has increased that number to 50% in only two years. For more information, visit the Reconnect website.

To be eligible, you must:

  • Be at least 25 years old when you apply
  • Have lived in Michigan for a year or more
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Have not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelor’s)

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