DEI in action: Welcoming 21 students to the inaugural bridge program

July 21, 2022 - Brian Johnson, Ph.D.

During the week of August 24-30, James Madison College (JMC) will welcome its first cohort of students into a new bridge program. The program is possible due to a gift from a JMC alumnus and donor.

The program is temporarily named “Early Start” until the first cohort of 21 students determines a name. Throughout the week, students will participate in academic, cultural and cohort-building activities that will acclimate them to James Madison College and Michigan State University.

Activities include, but are not limited to, a week-long class taught by JMC faculty member Dr. Melissa Fore, time management workshops, a trip to the Michigan Capitol and Michigan Supreme Court, a meet-and-greet with the JMC community and a trip to see the musical “Hamilton.”

As part of the application process, students submitted a personal statement and participated in a rigorous interview by a selection committee comprised of JMC faculty, staff and students. Due to the strength and caliber of student applicants, more students were selected for the program than anticipated.

The students who have been accepted into the program bring a wealth of talent and will be an asset to JMC. It is an honor to work with these students and implement Dean Thies’ vision. Upon completion of the summer program, Early Start students will transition into a JMC first-year program.

The students are energized and excited, and we are equally energized and excited to welcome them to JMC. For more information about JMC’s Early Start Program, please contact me at John3582@msu.edu.

Looking forward to seeing everyone next month.

 

Brian Johnson

Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion