TRAVERSE CITY — The NMC Commitment Scholarship is vastly expanding the ranks of eligible first generation college students this spring, increasing the impact of a unique college access opportunity that began more than thirty years ago.
Starting with the high school class of 2028 (current high school sophomores), prospective first generation college students in the six-county area can self-nominate for a Commitment Scholarship.
Previously students had to be nominated by their high school counselor as freshmen. Eligibility was limited to 18 regional public high schools, each of which could nominate only three students. Charter, private and homeschooled students are also now eligible.
The scholarship provides $2,000/year for up to three years. First-generation is defined as neither parent having earned an associate degree or higher.
The goal is to expand access and have more students take advantage of the scholarship, which was established by NMC donors in 1993. Students must also participate in two preparatory events prior to starting at NMC and maintain a 2.0 GPA in high school.
Gillian Lovett, a 2023 Bellaire High School graduate, is a Commitment scholar currently enrolled at NMC. She will graduate this May. She said the scholarship helped make college a realistic prospect for her.
“I was definitely pretty surprised. College wasn’t on my radar yet. I felt pretty lucky to be nominated, and I felt grateful that I did have an opportunity ahead of me to go to school and not worry about the money,” Lovett said.
2024 Mancelona High School graduate Kai Collins also received the Commitment scholarship. By combining it with dual enrollment, he earned a UAS certificate from NMC. Now he’s a sophomore at Michigan Technological University majoring in mechanical engineering, and has landed an internship at Milwaukee Tool this summer. In addition to the financial benefit, Collins said the scholarship gave him a big confidence boost.
“Being a Commitment scholar felt like I was being treated as an adult. I had to learn management skills,” Collins said. “It’s made me a lot more confident in my college journey. I know I can use opportunities I’m given to their fullest.”
Apply online at nmc.edu/commitment.
Release date: MARCH 2, 2026
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
cnoga@nmc.edu
(231) 392-1800 (Call or text)