MiLEAP and Michigan College Access Network partner to create the Michigan Retired Educator FAFSA Specialists Program

LANSING, Mich. – Today, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) and the Michigan College Access Network  (MCAN) announced the roll out of the new Michigan Retired Educator FAFSA Specialists (REFS) Program aimed at boosting FAFSA completion and enrollment of adult learners aged 21-24 in Michigan’s community and tribal colleges.

“MiLEAP is thrilled to partner with MCAN on this proactive solution to get more adult students enrolled and through their postsecondary education journeys,” said Michelle Richard, acting director of MiLEAP. “REFS will provide Michigan students with much-needed assistance in navigating the FAFSA process, enrolling in college, and planning for their future. This partnership is just one more step the State is making to ensure our adult learners are supported and can reach their education goals.”

MiLEAP’s Office of Sixty by 30 awarded MCAN $500,000 to carry out this initiative that will primarily focus on outreach to adult learners eligible for Michigan Reconnect Expansion. MCAN REF specialists will focus on mission-aligned populations, particularly individuals and families of color and/or from low-income backgrounds, who are currently not participating in Michigan Reconnect. REF specialists will provide assistance with general college advising, FAFSA completion and enrollment in postsecondary education.

Applicants must be retired educators from K-12 or higher education and must be able to pass federal and state background screenings. View the job description for more information and requirements and consider joining the effort.

"MCAN is excited to officially launch REFS to provide local support to Michigan Reconnect efforts,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, executive director of MCAN (left). “This partnership with the Office of Sixty by 30 and MiLEAP will allow us to support more Michigan adult learners as they complete their postsecondary education and increase access to economic opportunities for students who need it most, including low-income students, students of color and first-generation college-going students.”

To learn more about the REFS program visit, https://micollegeaccess.org/jobpostings/1233.

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