GVSU, SMC leaders sign agreement to open pathways for Southwest Michigan learners

Leaders from Grand Valley and Southwestern Michigan College signed an agreement July 17 that provides SMC students with opportunities to take GVSU classes and degree programs at the Dowagiac campus.

The agreement expands GVSU's Omni initiative, a network of regional campuses and community college partners that brings a GVSU education to learners across the state. Students from SMC can enroll in hybrid or in-person courses, something that GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella said sets Omni apart from other programs.

"Michigan's future depends on growing the number of people with the education and skills needed for the knowledge economy," Mantella said. "Partnering with Southwestern Michigan College benefits the learners who can advance their career and the entire Southwest Michigan community."

SMC students can enroll in GVSU's Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program and pursue either the professional innovation or leadership and business major at SMC. Additional academic programs will be added.

Kara Van Dam, chief executive for Omni, said research shows working adults who return to the classroom are looking for hybrid models that offer in-person classes.

"We know students want to quickly establish a community when they join or return to the academic setting," Van Dam said. "We call it 'learn where you live.' Grand Valley is offering the flexibility of classes to help adults advance their skills in their own communities."

SMC President Joe Odenwald said: "There is no denying the economic benefits of a higher education. This partnership with Grand Valley State University will open a baccalaureate route for our technical graduates, enabling them to manage and own businesses and organizations. GVSU is a quality leader, and quality is one of our core values, thus, this partnership is ideal."

It was also ideal for Brandon Pompey. The SMC interim director of campus life earned degrees from both institutions. During his remarks, Pompey said SMC provided him a home after high school, where he thrived on campus and in the theater scene. He transferred to GVSU and earned a bachelor's degree in theater studies in 2011.

"Now, I can support Lakers at SMC. It's my two homes coming together," Pompey said.

GVSU will have office space at SMC led by a student services coordinator, who can offer broad-ranging transfer and student support. Learn more about Omni from GVSU and the multiple pathways — certificate, badge and degree programs — offered to meet the needs of adult learners.