MCTI’s student-focused approach results in postsecondary success for individuals with disabilities
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) hosted its winter/spring graduation ceremony Thursday, celebrating 71 students who successfully completed in-demand training programs and earned credentials that will help them access competitive, integrated employment opportunities.
“We’re beyond proud of the dedication, commitment and outstanding achievements demonstrated by this exceptional group of students at Michigan Career and Technical Institute,” said MCTI Director Jennifer Zuniga. “MCTI training programs empower individuals with disabilities. Our graduates leave MCTI well-prepared to join the workforce, equipped with the technical expertise and employability skills essential for success in today’s economy.”
Four graduates were named recipients of MCTI’s prestigious Honor Award. Since 1973, the award has been presented to graduating students who have made outstanding contributions to the school, contributed to the success of their fellow students and individual classrooms, and shown significant growth during their time at MCTI.
Honor Award recipients were Mindy Hart of Lenawee County (Retail Marketing); Holly Leverenz of St. Clair County (Culinary Arts); Zachary Miller of Ionia County (Custodial); and Piper Mitchell of Van Buren County (Commercial Printing). Leverenz was selected to give the Student Address during the ceremony.
“These four students represent the very best of MCTI – they epitomize the dedication, hard work and collaborative spirit the devoted staff strives to instill in their students each and every day,” said Sigrid Adams, Acting Bureau Director of Michigan Rehabilitation Services, who gave the Commencement Address. “I’m excited for each of the graduates and the bright futures that lie ahead of them.”
The ceremony was held at MCTI’s main campus in Plainwell. The group of 71 graduates also included 12 students who completed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training at MCTI’s accredited extension campuses in Benton Harbor (seven graduates) and Kalamazoo (five).
MCTI strives to promote the integration of Michiganders with disabilities into both the competitive workplace and society. Students at MCTI’s Plainwell campus may enroll in one of 12 technical training programs, including automotive technology, cabinet making/millwork, certified nurse assistant, commercial printing, culinary arts, custodial, grounds maintenance/landscaping, industrial electronics, information technology, machine technology, pharmacy technician and retail marketing.
Each training program is supported by an active advisory committee made up of people who work in that industry and help ensure the school’s curriculum and equipment meet business standards and needs. MCTI offers students health, psychological and social work services, sports and activities, housing, student government and much more.
In addition to the extension campuses in Benton Harbor and Kalamazoo where students receive CNA training, MCTI has an accredited extension campus in Fowlerville that provides training in culinary arts.
The second-largest rehabilitation training center in the country, MCTI is a division of Michigan Rehabilitation Services within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.
MCTI directly supports Governor Whitmer’s Sixty by 30 goal to increase the number of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree to 60% by 2030.
Learn more about the Michigan Career and Technical Institute by visiting Michigan.gov/MCTI.
Michigan Career and Technical Institute staff with Honor Award recipients (left to right) Zachary Miller, Mindy Hart, Holly Leverenz and Piper Mitchell.
Student Speaker Holly Leverenz addresses the audience during the Michigan Career and Technical Institute's graduation ceremony.
MRS Acting Bureau Director Sigrid Adams gives Commencement Address during MCTI graduation ceremony.
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