LANSING – State Representative Mary Valentine (D-Norton Shores) today threw her support behind Michigan college students who held a rally at the State Capitol to save the Michigan Promise Scholarship. The scholarship, which has made college affordable and accessible for nearly 100,000 Michigan families, is in danger of being eliminated due to budget cuts proposed by the State Senate.
"As a long-time educator, I understand how vital higher education is for our students," Valentine said. "If our children want to compete in the 21st century global economy, they are going to need a college degree. The Promise Scholarship has helped tens of thousands of middle-class students pursue their dream of receiving a college education. We must continue to support this valuable plan."
The Michigan Promise Scholarship awards Michigan students with a total of $4,000 after they complete two years of community college, university or vocational training with a grade-point average of 2.5 or higher. Nearly 100,000 students rely on the Promise Scholarship every year.
Today's rally included students from universities around the state, lawmakers and residents who understand how important education is to Michigan's future.
Valentine is encouraging residents interested in receiving brief updates on the budget process to sign up for her e-newsletter by visiting her Web site, www.house.mi.gov/mvalentine.