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Community Impact & Engagement

Degree Forward is committed to serving and impacting our community! In addition to being a Higher Education partner, we are a community-based organization that fosters opportunities for learning, gathering & collaboration.
Mission Statement
Degree Forward is passionately pursuing solutions to increase college completion, certification, and career advancement rates for communities in Michigan.
Newsletter
Click the link to view our 2024 End of Year Newsletter

Exciting News!!

Degree Forward Student & Community Center is officially open! This space was created with you in mind—to help you stay on track, connect with your academic coach, and get the support you need to succeed in your coursework.

We welcome you to stop by Tuesday–Thursday from 10 AM – 7 PM. Whether you need a quiet place to work, help with a project, or just a space to focus, we’re here for you.

Location:
Degree Forward Student & Community Center
20800 Southfield Road, Suite 110
Southfield, MI 48075

To help us prepare for your visit, please let us know when you plan to stop by! Schedule an appointment with your academic coach.

We can’t wait to see you and support you on your journey!

Learn About Our Programs
We believe an educated workforce is the key to providing higher wages, career advancement, and ultimately greater outcomes for companies, our city, and state.
Contact Us To Become a Funding or Community Partner
Degree Forward's Inaugural Community Impact Report
Congratulations to our students, graduates, incredible staff, partners, and community for helping make our work possible!
Click on the link to view the full report. Full DF 2023 Impact Report

Teacher Pathway

 AS SEEN ON:

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Rural Expansion to provide access to degree & certification opportunities in Huron, Tuscola and Sanilac Counties!
Partners:
For More Information Contact:

Laura Polega

Rural Program Director

laura.polega@degreeforward.org

Schedule a Meeting

Diploma 2 Degree (D2D)

The goal of Diploma 2 Degree is to potentially ease the transition from high school to college, by identifying common pitfalls & providing solutions to excel in college.
For More Information Contact:

Dr. R. Henry

Executive Director

(Director of Academic Success & D2D )

raylynn.henry@degreeforward.org

Schedule a Meeting

BMSN

The Black Male Success Network (formally Black Male Achievement Initiative (BMAI)) will focus specifically on equipping Black male students with the tools, resources, and support needed to excel in their degree journey and professional careers.

The BMS Network will serve as a dedicated space for Black men to engage in meaningful discussions about wellness, education, and the challenges we face in higher education.

Members have the opportunity to:

  • Build a community and support system through networking and mentorship
  • Engage in volunteer work and community outreach
  • Attend local conferences and exclusive in-house events at the Degree Forward Student & Community Center
  • Participate in our “Chop It Up” Series, a quarterly discussion covering important topics that impact Black men in education and beyond
  • Collaborate with other Degree Forward students and alumni on academic and professional goals

Coming Soon! Forgotten Harvest Partnership

Degree Forward is committed to supporting adult learners and working professionals by eliminating the barriers that often stand in the way of earning a degree. We understand that challenges such as balancing work, family responsibilities, finances, and academic demands can make degree completion difficult. That’s why our program is designed to provide the essential support students need to succeed.

How We Mitigate Barriers

Our holistic approach ensures that students receive not only academic guidance but also the practical resources necessary to stay on track. We address key obstacles such as:

  • Academic Support: Personalized one-on-one coaching and cohort-based sessions help students navigate coursework, develop strong study habits, and stay accountable.
  • Flexible Learning: Our program is primarily online, allowing students to learn at their own pace while also offering in-person support for those who benefit from face-to-face interaction.
  • Financial & Resource Assistance: Degree Forward connects students to resources that help with tuition support, scholarships, and financial planning to ease the burden of educational costs.
  • Basic Needs Support: Recognizing that food insecurity can impact academic performance, we work to connect students with food resources, meal programs, and community partnerships to ensure no student has to choose between education and a meal.
  • Time & Work Balance Strategies: We provide strategies and tools to help students effectively manage their time while juggling jobs, families, and coursework.

Empowering Success Through Community

At Degree Forward, we foster a supportive network where students can engage with peers, mentors, and career professionals. Our community-based approach helps learners stay motivated, share resources, and build connections that last beyond graduation.

By addressing real-life challenges and ensuring students have access to both academic and personal support, Degree Forward makes it possible for adult learners to achieve their educational goals without sacrificing their well-being.

Choose your path

Find the program that fits you best.

Explore our degree programs or reach out to one of our friendly coaches to help you decide on your next steps.