Applications are being accepted through July 15 for the Mesa College Promise program for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Current high school students residing in Mesa who are on target to earn a high school diploma from a public, private, charter, online or home school, including recipients of a state accredited GED, are encouraged to complete the FAFSA and apply for the program to attend MCC for two years with no out of pocket expenses for tuition or fees.
The program provides financial support to students with demonstrated financial needs who have not received enough FAFSA funds or other scholarships to completely cover the cost of college. Eligibility includes a 2.0 or better high school GPA, Mesa residency and a commitment to taking a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. Full details and the application link are available at mesacc.edu/mesa-promise.
Brooklynn Contreras, a current Mesa College Promise student says of the program, "The most important thing besides the scholarship opportunity that came with it was the additional support."
Students accepted into the program are connected with an academic advisor to aid in setting and maintaining progress toward an individualized educational plan. Advisors remain in contact with students throughout their time at the college and serve as liaisons to connect students with support services such as tutoring, counseling, job search assistance and basic needs.
"The combined efforts of the City of Mesa, businesses, teachers, academic advisors, parents and guardians in supporting students in accomplishing this milestone is commendable," said MCC Interim President Lori Berquam, Ph.D. "We aim to be the source of possibilities, and are very proud of the inaugural Mesa College Promise class of 2021-2022. We look forward to joining our community next spring to honor these students for earning college degrees."
Sixty-three students make up the inaugural Mesa College Promise class completing their first year of college; many are first in their family to achieve this accomplishment.
"The Mesa College Promise increases educational attainment, builds a strong workforce and supports a sustainable economy," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "Education is a key that unlocks the future, and through this partnership with the business community, Mesa Community College and the City of Mesa, we are creating invaluable opportunities for our eligible students to take the next step in preparing for successful careers."
Visit mesacc.edu/mesa-promise to learn more about the program, connect with an academic advisor and apply to participate in the program.
Media contacts:
City of Mesa: Casey Blake, 480-644-3662, casey.blake@mesaaz.gov
Mesa Community College: Dawn Zimmer, 480-461-7892, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu