Last October, the North Star Promise program began reshaping higher education in Minnesota. As a faculty member, I’m excited about the changes it brings.
North Star Promise helps cover nearly all costs for students at public colleges and universities in Minnesota. This program is designed for families with an adjusted gross income of $80,000 or less, making it a lifeline for many middle-class families in the state.
The funding works based on a “last-dollar” system. This means that any scholarships or grants a student receives first reduce their costs. The North Star Promise then covers the remaining balance, usually between $1,500 and $2,500 for each student, depending on whether they attend community college or university.
Students are taking advantage of this program. Last fall, over 16,700 students enrolled, as reported by MinnPost. It’s a program that’s changing lives, especially for those returning to complete their degrees after many years. Just think about the impact it has on these individuals and their families.
My own journey reflects the difference education can make. I was the first in my family to graduate from college. My family has a rich history, tracing back to when my great-grandfather was a longshoreman and my mother was a community organizer who dreamed of a college education for me. She couldn’t attend school herself, but she worked hard to ensure I would have that chance.
Now, as a professor at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, I see the importance of programs like the North Star Promise. My education allowed my family to have financial stability with savings and checking accounts, providing a safety net for any unexpected expenses.
It’s important for more students to take advantage of the North Star Promise. Their presence on campus can lead to a more diverse learning environment. For example, if our classes attract more first-generation students like I was, the discussions we have will broaden and deepen, enriching the entire university experience.
I’m thankful for the North Star Promise because it opens doors for students from all backgrounds—whether they come from farming communities or urban neighborhoods. This diversity will enhance our classes, leading to a richer dialogue and a more inclusive atmosphere.
Education is about more than just degrees; it’s about community and connection. I believe that when people from all walks of life come together, we all learn and grow stronger.
David Beard is a professor of rhetoric at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
Check out this related article: Get Ready for Excitement: WBB Gameday at the WCC Championship – Oregon State University Athletics
Source linkOpinion
