October 09, 2026
Jason Wilson, deputy director of Strategic Talent Preparation at MiLEAP speaks to students about their futures.
ROCHESTER, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) joined Oakland University on Friday, Oct. 9, to connect nearly 300 high school freshmen and sophomores with college, career and workforce opportunities through the regional MI Kickoff series. The event gave students an opportunity to explore college pathways, learn about preparing for life after high school and connect with members of the Oakland University community.
“College and career decisions can feel far away when students are still early in high school, but the choices they make now can help shape what comes next,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, executive director of MiLEAP. “MI Kickoff gives young men the opportunity to ask questions, learn what options are available to them and begin thinking intentionally about the path they want to pursue.”
During the evetnt, students explored the value of a college degree and learned practical ways to prepare and pay for college. Sessions covered the FAFSA, scholarships and saving for college, while giving students opportunities to practice communicating, asking questions and taking ownership of their next steps.
Students also explored PathwayU, a predictive life-design platform that helps students connect their interests, values and strengths with potential majors and career paths. They heard from Oakland University students and members of the campus community during a panel discussion and had the option to take a campus tour.
“Nearly 300 ninth and tenth grade students from across Oakland and Wayne counties attended today’s Moving Michigan Males Forward event,” said Teresa Rodges, senior director of Community Service and Pre-College Programs at Oakland University. “Today gave students an opportunity to explore financial aid, hear firsthand from current students and alumni about their Oakland University experiences, and develop a plan for their future based on their interests and goals. We’re grateful to partner with MiLEAP to help more young men across Michigan see themselves in higher education and connect with the postsecondary opportunities that can help them achieve their goals.”
The regional MI Kickoff events respond to a need to reach young men earlier and help them see a clear connection between their interests, education and futures. The effort builds on MiLEAP’s Office of Strategic Talent Preparation’s (OSTP) work to identify gaps and expand access to education and career opportunities, as highlighted in its 2026 Vision and Impact Report.
About 56% of young men in Michigan enroll in college within one year of graduating high school, compared with 69% of young women. Women also earn nearly 60% of all degrees and certificates awarded in Michigan.
Today's event is the second of five regional MI Kickoff events taking place across Michigan this fall.
Upcoming regional MI Kickoff events include:
To learn more, visit Michigan.gov/MiLEAP.
Vice president of Public Affairs at Detroit Pistons & Oakland University trustee and alum, Stefen Welch, gives a keynote to students about exploring their future possibilities.
Students raise their hand to participate during a conversation designed to teach them about taking ownership of their next steps.
Students learn about PathwayU, a predictive life-design platform that helps them connect their interests, values and strengths with potential majors and career paths.
Students attend the PathwayU engagement session to connect their interests, values and strengths with potential majors and career paths.
Teresa Rodges, senior director of Community Service and Pre-College Programs at Oakland University introduces student and alumni panelists Marcus Johnson, Jayson Miller, James Mitchell and Adam Schmitz for a discussion on student experiences and advice.
Students raise their hands to participate in an engaging college budget exercise.
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About the Office of Strategic Talent Preparation:
The Office of Strategic Talent Preparation (OSTP), part of MiLEAP, works with communities and partners to identify gaps, expand access to education and career opportunities and connect Michiganders with resources to support their success. Learn more about OSTP’s work and impact.
About MiLEAP:
Established by Gov. Whitmer in 2023, MiLEAP ensures every Michigander has a path to prosperity from birth to earning a postsecondary credential that leads to high-wage careers. To learn more about MiLEAP, go to Michigan.gov/MiLEAP.
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