MASSP News Center

Michigan Promise Scholarship speech insert for graduation ceremonies

This year’s graduates, the Class of 2007, are ushering in a new era of educational opportunity in Michigan. Our state has made a new commitment—and it begins with this class. And that commitment is this: Because we want all members of the Class of 2007 to continue their education after high school, we will help all of you pay for it.

The Class of 2007 is the first eligible to receive the $4,000 Michigan Promise Scholarship. Some of you have already qualified for the first half of this new scholarship based on how you did on the MEAP test. You’ll qualify for the rest when you finish two years of college or training. Others will earn the entire scholarship through your achievement in college or technical education.

Either way, you’ll be able to earn $4,000 to help pay your way and that’s enough to cover the cost of two year’s worth of tuition at most of our community colleges. And it doesn’t matter whether or not you’ve already made plans to continue your education—the Michigan Promise Scholarship is waiting for you. So if you are sitting here tonight (this afternoon) thinking that college or technical training is something you can’t afford, think again.
Thanks to the Michigan Promise Scholarship a college degree is within the reach of every member of the Class of 2007.

Governor Granholm and lawmakers from both parties worked together to create this new scholarship for the young people of our state. The Governor offers these words to the class of 2007:

“For the first time in our state’s history, every student receiving a diploma at this ceremony has an opportunity to earn a $4,000 Michigan Promise scholarship. This new scholarship exists because the people of Michigan believe in educational opportunity. We also believe in you and in your ability to make a great future for yourself and our state. Congratulations on your achievement today and on many more to come.”

Jennifer M. Granholm
Governor