Agreement between GVSU, WCCCD will strengthen region's workforce in key areas

From left are (from GVSU) Adebayo Ogundipe, Marouane Kessentini, Kara Van Dam and President Philomena V. Mantella, (from WCCCD) CharMaine Hines, Harvey Dorrah and Denis Karic.

Contact: Michele Coffill, GVSU University Communications, coffillm@gvsu.edu, (616) 331-2221
Unbreen Amir, WCCCD Administration, uamir1@wcccd.edu, (313) 496-2510

DETROIT — Leaders from Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) signed an agreement June 9 that creates smoother pathways for WCCCD students who want to earn degrees from GVSU.

The agreement opens doors for direct pathways for transfer students interested in cybersecurity, allied health sciences and Grand Valley's Bachelor of Applied Science programs. GVSU will also have a physical presence at WCCCD's Mary Ellen Stempfle University Center.

“Collaboration is crucial for our state to produce the talent that is needed in critical, high-demand sectors," said Philomena V. Mantella, GVSU president. "We're pleased to work with key partners like Wayne County Community College District, who share our commitment to helping more learners achieve the life-changing impact of a bachelor’s degree.”

WCCCD Chancellor Curtis L. Ivery said: “This partnership represents a shared commitment to student success and workforce readiness. By creating direct transfer pathways in high-demand fields, we’re not only opening doors to opportunity, we’re building bridges to bachelor’s degrees and meaningful careers. We’re proud to join forces with Grand Valley State University to enhance resources, support and access to our students.” 

The agreement advances both institutions’ efforts to increase the number of Detroit area college-going students and residents with postsecondary degrees and credentials.

Kara Van Dam, vice president and chief executive for GVSU Omni, said that the partnership reflects Grand Valley’s broader commitment to regional engagement through GVSU Omni, the network of organizations and community colleges that brings a Grand Valley education to learners wherever they live.

"Today’s agreement is a meaningful step toward a shared goal of creating clear, accessible and empowering educational pathways for students in Southeast Michigan," Van Dam said.

Marouane Kessentini, dean of GVSU's College of Computing, said the strength of WCCCD's cybersecurity program makes that program a natural fit for this partnership. 

"I want to express my gratitude to the teams at both institutions for forging this strategic alliance," Kessentini said. “By aligning our programs, particularly in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, we are creating seamless opportunities and flexible pathways for students and helping to fuel Michigan’s innovation economy. This collaboration is a model for how higher education can proactively address workforce needs and drive regional prosperity.”