MI College Access Network

The Michigan College Access Network is a Michigan based 501(c)(3) whose mission is to increase college readiness, participation, and completion in Michigan, particularly among low-income students, first-generation college going students, and students of color.

MCAN's Vision and Values
College is postsecondary education: MCAN uses the term "college" to refer to the attainment of valuable postsecondary credentials beyond high school, including professional/technical certificates and academic degrees.
College is a necessity: Postsecondary education is a prerequisite to success in a knowledge-based economy. Everyone must pursue and complete a postsecondary credential or degree beyond high school.
College is for everyone: The postsecondary education attainment rates among low-income students and students of color are significantly lower than those of other students. MCAN is committed to closing these gaps.
College is a public good: Postsecondary educational opportunity and attainment are critical to a just and equitable society, strong economy, and healthy communities.

MCAN's Big Goal
Increase the percentage of Michigan residents with high-quality degrees or credentials to 60% by the year 2025.

MCAN's Strategies
Local College Access Network Development
Support the creation, expansion, and sustainability of high-quality, community-based college access strategic alliances. MCAN will serve as the primary support and intermediary organization to LCANs by providing technical assistance and grant opportunities.

Secondary Strategies
Implement Statewide Initiatives
Support and maintain key statewide initiatives in order to increase college access, particularly within Local College Access Networks. Specifically, MCAN will serve as the lead implementation partner on the following projects:

Professional Development:
Train college access professionals, such as high school counselors and other community- and campus-based professionals, to be highly qualified and effective college advisers.

Leadership and Advocacy:
Serve as Michigan's authority on college access and success issues through leadership. Advocate for policy reforms that expand postsecondary opportunities for low-income students, first-generation college going students, and students of color.

Coordination and Partnerships:
Coordinate Michigan college access resources, programs, and services. Strengthen existing like-minded and mission-aligned college access and success initiatives.