ALLENDALE, Michigan — For many people, gone are the days of going to college in the span of two to four years and obtaining a college degree. Some students may start their college journey and move on with life without obtaining their college diploma.
Grand Valley State University is expanding a program called Omni that combines in person and online support for adult learners. The program will also aid the students who started their degree, but never finished.
“Omni represents a new commitment to adult learners in Michigan, many of whom have previous college credits or work experiences that can be recognized to create a custom path toward a GVSU certificate or degree,” said Philomena V. Mantella, president of GVSU.
It's also designed to be accessible to students no matter where they reside as the work towards completing their degree.
“The needs of Michigan’s workforce demand bold solutions,” said La June Montgomery Tabron, president and CEO of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, which is providing support for GVSU’s expansion in Battle Creek. “Opportunities like these are crucial to move our communities toward becoming more equitable places of opportunity, and also help parents better support their children so they can thrive.”
Kara Van Dam joined GVSU's leadership team in 2021 and later created the Omni program after realizing more Michigan residents needed help facing a more certain and stable future.
“Michigan faces a daunting challenge,” Van Dam said. “Nearly 50 percent of its adult population lack a postsecondary credential despite unambiguous evidence that continued educational achievement is the surest path out of poverty toward sustained economic security. Our regional network of campuses across the state and online educational offerings mean that no matter where people are in their careers and education GVSU Omni meets students where they are and guides their next step for advancement.
Grand Valley says enrollment begins this spring and more will be offered in the fall of 2024.
For more information on the Omni Program click here.
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