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College classes wrap up at the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base

  • Published
  • By Maj. Kelly Black
  • 110th Attack Wing Staff Executive Officer
March 4, 2015 --  Wednesday evening one of Governor's Snyder's education initiatives reached a milestone. The Michigan State Tuition Assistance (MISTAP) program provides tuition assistance to members of up to $4,500 per academic year to members of the Michigan National Guard. Battle Creek's Air National Guard Base is home to the 110th Attack Wing. As a result the Governor's MISTAP program, the 110th has developed education partnerships with Western Michigan University, Central Michigan University, Sienna Heights and Kellogg Community College. Battle Creek Air National Guard Base Wing Commander, Col. Ronald Wilson is encouraged by the success of these partnerships in education, "These new partnerships are steadily expanding the capabilities of military service members by providing greater access to education."  These partnerships have led to several courses being held at the airport primarily for members and their families, but also including local civilians. The first of these initial classes was completed Wednesday Evening. Central Michigan University's class for their Master's Degree program and also their undergraduate Algebra class just completed. Col Wilson was on hand to congratulate the students on taking this step and to thank representatives from the University for their efforts. Western Michigan's Undergraduate English Composition course wraps up next, followed by a Speech class from Kellogg Community College. WMU, CMU and KCC representatives are already working with the 110th to solidify their partnership and publish the next set of class offerings. Major Kelly Black, the project officer supporting launch of the program noted "We have a wealth of well-educated personnel with diverse needs to complete the next step in their civilian education. Our educational partners are making a difference in fulfilling the Governor's initiative and helping service-members complete degree programs".