Gov. Jennifer Granholm revealed a plan aimed at doubling the state’s number of college graduates in an effort to diversify the state’s economy.

The program, called the Michigan College Access Network, will promote post-secondary education by supporting local programs that help people obtain information about higher education and how to obtain financial assistance. The governor expects the network up and running by the fall of 2010.

The governor feels that producing a well educated workforce is a must for improving the state’s economy.

“Michigan absolutely must produce the nation’s best-educated workforce to create jobs and diversify our economy,” Granholm said in a press release. “The Michigan College Access Network will mobilize the assets of every community in our state to give both our young people and adults the support and information they need to get a college education. We have to use every resource possible to help make higher education accessible and affordable for every Michigan citizen.”

The critical part of MCAN is creating a Web site about obtaining financial aid, which Diane Fleming, associate director of client services, said is crucial to increasing awareness about the financial aid process.

“The Web site will be a ‘one stop shop’ for students,” Fleming said. “Anything that makes the process of finding out how to apply for students and parents is an always an improvement.”

While the plan is targeted at all communities, the governor’s office feels that MCAN will most benefit lower income and prospective first-generation college students who need help transitioning to college.

“Students in lower socio-economically states tend to not know what’s available and prepare academically,” Fleming said.

Director of Admissions Betty Wagner said the network will enable students and parents to begin the college preparation process earlier.

“It will be useful to help parents plan for the cost of a college education in advance,” Wagner said. “Hopefully, the goal is to get more Michigan students on the path to education after high school. Whether it’s a four-year institution, two-year institution or technical schools.”

The governor also will introduce “Promise Zones,” public-private partnerships to provide college tuition for students in high poverty areas and establishing a $4,000 Michigan Promise scholarship that will be available to every Michigan high school student to help increase the number of college students.

university@cm-life.com

E-mail the author: Joe Martinez