A new Madison College initiative will provide additional financial aid for qualifying high school students as well as services to help them prepare for and adjust to college. The “Scholars of Promise” program will benefit low-income students who have the aptitude and motivation to complete their college education, but lack financial resources.
“The Scholars of Promise program is deeply rooted in our mission to provide open access to quality higher education,” said Dr. Jack E. Daniels III, president of Madison College, in a press release.
High school students from throughout the 12-county Madison College district may apply. Eligible students must achieve a 2.25 grade point average and maintain 80 percent attendance through their senior year.
“If students are committed to meeting the high expectations we have set forth, then we are committed to rewarding their efforts with the funds needed to cover the gap in tuition and fees that are not covered by federal or state aid,” said Dr. Keith Cornille, senior vice president of Student Development and Success.
Madison College serves more than 40,000 students throughout a 12-county district in south-central Wisconsin, offering 150 diverse career programs and certificates. Its mission is to provide open access to quality higher education that fosters lifelong learning and success in the communities it serves. It is the second-largest institution in the Wisconsin Technical College System.
Funds provided by the Madison College Foundation will pay for 15 credits for a maximum of six semesters or until the student earns a degree. In addition to the financial aid, Scholars will receive guidance throughout the admissions, financial aid and class enrollment process. They will also attend college preparation courses and financial literacy workshops between their junior and senior year of high school.
Upon entering their first term at Madison College, Promise Scholars are required to enroll in the college’s Learn-to-Learn Camp or College Success Course. To maintain their status, students must complete a Personal Education Plan, participate in a service learning project and attend various student success workshops including career exploration and engage in a student life activity each semester.
Students throughout the Madison College district are eligible for the Scholars of Promise program. More information can be found here.