News Summary
Grand Rapids Community College is experiencing significant changes, including a 2.4% tuition increase for in-district students beginning in the 2025-26 academic year. Leadership is also shifting as President Charles Lepper goes on administrative leave, with Lisa Freiburger stepping in as acting president. Despite concerns over costs, GRCC has announced $1.1 million in scholarships for students. The college aims to maintain affordability while enhancing educational support. Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent visit promotes the Michigan Reconnect program, offering potential tuition-free education opportunities for eligible students.
Grand Rapids Community College Sees Changes and a Bit of a Tuition Hike
In the heart of Grand Rapids, exciting developments are stirring within the Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) as the campus gears up for the upcoming academic year. Recently, the Board of Trustees met to discuss some important changes, and while there are a few shifts in leadership, there’s also some good news about scholarships and support for students.
Tuition Climb on the Horizon
It was announced that, starting in the 2025-26 school year, students can expect a 2.4% increase in tuition. This bump will raise the cost per contact hour for in-district students from $124 to $127. If you’re looking into early childhood or preschool programs, the rate will see a slight hike of 3%. Even with this increase, the college remains a budget-friendly option, staying below the average cost for community colleges across the state. This is great news for students who appreciate affordable education.
A Look at Leadership Changes
A flip in leadership is also making headlines, as GRCC President Charles Lepper has been placed on paid administrative leave, missing his second consecutive Board of Trustees meeting. In the interim, Lisa Freiburger, who is the acting president and vice president of finance and administration, is at the helm. While there may be some questions about Lepper’s absence—rumored to be linked to his potential new role at another college—Freiburger and the board remain focused on ensuring stability and continued support for students.
Scholarships to the Rescue
While the news of a tuition increase may raise eyebrows, there’s ample reason for students to embrace the good news on scholarships. The GRCC Foundation recently announced it awarded a whopping $1.1 million in scholarships to about 1,400 students! This follows a successful year where the college led all 27 Michigan community colleges with a total scholarship disbursement exceeding $1.3 million in 2023. For anyone considering attending or continuing at GRCC, those numbers paint a hopeful picture.
Timely Application Reminders
Even though students might think they’ve missed out by not applying before the priority deadline, Erin Van Egmond, the vice president of college advancement, encourages everyone to keep those applications rolling in year-round. It’s a great opportunity that can lead to significant financial relief for students as they navigate their education costs. Every little bit helps, especially in these financially challenging times!
Celebrating Faculty Achievements
In a heartening show of recognition, the board also celebrated the dedication of 21 faculty members who received tenure, showcasing their commitment to an equity-focused, student-centered approach. This is an encouraging sign for students who benefit from passionate, caring educators ready to support their learning journeys.
Looking Ahead
As the college prepares for its final Board of Trustees meeting for the academic year on May 19, students are reminded that class enrollment remains open. The board is also looking to keep a close watch on all purchases over $100,000 and held discussions about employee evaluations in a recent closed session.
Governor’s Support for Michigan Reconnect
Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer made a notable visit to GRCC to promote the Michigan Reconnect program. This is fantastic news for potential students—especially those graduating from high school! The program allows many community college students to attend classes tuition-free, potentially changing the financial landscape of higher education for many. The state budget has been designed to ensure in-district community college students have their tuition covered, while those from out of the district will have access to substantial tuition grants.
Overall, with leadership changes, a modest tuition increase, and a multitude of scholarship opportunities, the future looks bright for Grand Rapids Community College. Returning students and newcomers alike can remain hopeful as they navigate their educational paths, taking advantage of the support available to them as they embark on this exciting journey.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Grand Valley State University Spring Dance Concert Announced
Grand Rapids Faces Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Amid Harsh Flu Season
Recent Campus Police Reports from Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids Says Goodbye to Trailblazing Mayor Rosalynn Bliss
Unemployment Claims Rise in Michigan Amid Federal Job Cuts
Grand Rapids Community College Offers $1 Million in Scholarships
Northern Michigan Women’s Basketball Team Earns NCAA Bid
Grand Rapids Hosts Annual Donut Dash 5K on Fat Tuesday
Grand Rapids Community College Students Share Fitness Strategies
One Man’s Journey: Achieving Homeownership in Grand Rapids
Additional Resources
- The Collegiate Live: GRCC Tuition Increase Approved
- Fox 17: Governor Whitmer Visits GRCC
- Wood TV: Tuition-Free Community College in Michigan
- MLive: Muskegon Community College Suspends DEI Programs
- Fox 17: Michigan’s Community Colleges Tuition-Free This Fall
- Wikipedia: Community College
- Google Search: Tuition Increase
- Google Scholar: College Tuition
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community College
- Google News: Community College News
