The Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education and Community Colleges convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss critical investments in Michigan's higher education landscape, emphasizing the importance of talent readiness for the state's economic growth.

The meeting began with a focus on the projected job market in Michigan, highlighting that by 2031, nearly 70% of jobs will require education beyond high school, with a significant portion necessitating a bachelor's degree or higher. This underscores the urgency for educational institutions to align their programs with the evolving demands of the workforce.

One of the key topics was the state's investment in Grand Valley State University (GVSU), which has been pivotal in addressing talent gaps in high-demand fields. The state allocated $29 million for the Daniel and Pamela DeVos Center for Interprofessional Health, which has significantly expanded health programs from 35 to 88, resulting in an 83% increase in health field enrollments.

Additionally, GVSU's establishment of a new College of Computing was discussed. This initiative has led to the introduction of six new degrees and a doubling of the academic offerings within just one year. The college's development was driven by extensive consultations with over 400 industry partners to ensure that the curriculum meets current workforce needs in areas such as artificial intelligence and software engineering.

The committee also highlighted GVSU's commitment to experiential learning, noting that nearly 80% of degree programs now incorporate co-op and internship opportunities, with a goal of reaching 100%. This hands-on approach is designed to better prepare students for the job market.

Lastly, the introduction of GVSU Omni was presented as a solution to address educational access in regions lacking upper-division university options. This initiative aims to partner with community colleges to provide local students with opportunities to pursue four-year degrees without the need to relocate, accommodating those with work or family commitments.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical role of higher education in Michigan's economic future, with a strong emphasis on aligning educational programs with workforce needs and expanding access to higher education across the state. The discussions set the stage for continued investment and collaboration between state institutions and community colleges to foster a skilled workforce.