Community
About Mid
Mid Michigan College Creates Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Community Impact Series
A community college is more than a place where students earn degrees. It is a place where people gather, ideas grow, partnerships form, and communities become stronger.
At Mid Michigan College, the College’s impact extends beyond traditional classrooms. Through workforce partnerships, community programs, shared spaces, and opportunities for learning at every stage of life, Mid provides resources that connect people throughout the region.
Supporting Local Businesses & Entrepreneurs
Strong communities are built by strong businesses.
Through the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Mid Michigan College supports entrepreneurs and small businesses across Clare, Gladwin, Isabella, and Gratiot counties with resources, guidance, and connections that help turn ideas into opportunities.
In 2025, the SBDC served over 420 clients throughout the region, helping support 28 new business starts and the creation of 106 new jobs. More than half of those clients—251 individuals, or 59 percent—represented women-owned businesses.
Whether someone is starting a new business, expanding an existing organization, or seeking guidance through a challenge, Mid serves as a resource for regional economic growth.
“The outcome of having the SBDC involved with MTW has been access to resources and financing that have helped us grow our business,” shared Brent Fisher, Owner of MTW Industries in Clare. “We’ve been able to hire more people, acquire and renovate a new facility, and our vision is to keep growing. The SBDC team helped us take our dreams and turn them into reality.”
Learning at Every Stage of Life
Education does not end when someone earns a degree.
Through Mid’s Lifelong Learning opportunities, community members can explore new interests, develop skills, and connect with others through personal enrichment classes and experiences. Offerings include topics ranging from arts and hobbies to technology, wellness, recreation, and more.
Mid also provides opportunities for community members to continue their education through programs such as the Senior Citizen Scholarship, which allows eligible residents age 62 and older in Mid’s district to take one credit-bearing course each semester tuition-free when space is available and prerequisites are met.
Creating Spaces Where Community Connects
Mid’s campuses serve as gathering places for students, families, organizations, and community members.
From meeting spaces and campus events to outdoor recreation opportunities, Mid provides places where people can learn, connect, and participate in activities that enrich the region.
Community members can access campus resources, including library services, and enjoy shared spaces designed to support connection and engagement.
Preparing the Next Generation
Programs such as WAVE and Educational Talent Search (ETS) help area students explore educational opportunities, build confidence, and prepare for future success.
Through partnerships with local schools and communities, Mid helps students see what is possible and understand the pathways available after high school.
A College Rooted in Community
For more than 60 years, Mid Michigan College has been part of the communities it serves. From preparing the region’s workforce to creating opportunities for learning, connection, and personal growth, Mid continues to provide resources that benefit students, employers, families, and neighbors throughout the region.
Understanding the Headlee Override
This November, Mid Michigan College is asking voters to consider restoring its originally voter-approved millage rate of 1.5 mills. Over time, the Headlee Amendment has reduced the College's millage rate to 1.2071 mills. Restoring the millage would add 0.2929 mills, or approximately $0.29 per $1,000 of taxable property value, resulting in more than $1.3 million in annual funding to support the College's mission and the communities it serves.
The proposal will appear on ballots in the Beaverton, Clare, Farwell, Gladwin, Harrison, and Mt. Pleasant school districts, which together make up Mid Michigan College's in-district service area. Residents of the district benefit from Mid's lower in-district tuition rate and are eligible to serve on the College's Board of Trustees.
This funding supports educational programs, workforce training, student services, and community resources—including supports for local businesses and economic growth.
Without this vital funding, program growth, service expansion, and the College's long-term stability are at risk. For most homeowners, the Headlee Override would cost approximately $2 per month and provide funding that supports the education of thousands of students, workforce training for regional employers, and programs and services that strengthen the communities Mid serves.
