Mesa College Promise Program Expands, Enters Fourth Academic Year

Mesa College Promise Program Expands, Enters Fourth Academic Year

The Mesa College Promise program has welcomed its fourth and largest group of students to receive two years of fully funded tuition and fees at Mesa Community College (MCC). The program includes the inaugural group of eligible Mesa residents who are 24 years or older.

Expansion of the successful program, a public and private partnership launched in 2021 with the City of Mesa, MCC and industry partners, now removes financial barriers for both eligible adult learners and those recently completing a high school level education, allowing many Mesa residents to upskill or reskill with tuition and fees fully covered.

"The Mesa College Promise is a game-changer for our community. By increasing access to higher education, we're not only empowering our residents but also strengthening our local economy and workforce," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "This partnership between Mesa Community College, the City of Mesa and our business community ensures that students are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and contribute to the future of our city."

This years group includes 320 new students, a 48 percent increase from last year: 263 who recently attained a high school education or equivalent and 57 adult learners who are 24 years of age or older. Many of the new students, and several recent MCC graduates who received assistance from the program, participated in a Mesa College Promise Welcome event Aug. 17 just before the start of the 2024-2025 academic year.

"We are deeply grateful for the incredible generosity of the City, local businesses, and individual donors who have made it possible for Mesa residents to pursue their dream of earning a college degree or certificate," said MCC President Dr. Richard Daniel. "The success of our students is at the heart of everything we do. Their achievements elevate our community and extend far beyond, to wherever their aspirations lead them."

One of the first Promise Programs in the state, Mesa College Promise welcomed the first group of 88 students to MCC in the Fall 2021 semester, 201 students in Fall 2022 and approximately 200 Promise students in Fall 2023. More than 70% of the students are the first in their families to attend college.

Mesa College Promise scholars receive wrap-around support services such as free tutoring and academic advising, access to an iPad loan program and a stipend to help cover costs of books, transportation or other educational expenses.

Applications for the Mesa College Promise program will reopen in Spring 2025. Learn more at mesacc.edu/mesa-promise.