October 30, 2026
Photos available for media use.
DETROIT, Mich. – Approximately 300 high school students explored college and career opportunities during Career & College Experience Day on Friday, Oct. 30, at Wayne County Community College District’s (WCCCD) Curtis L. Ivery Downtown Campus. Hosted in partnership with the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), the event connected students with practical information and resources to help them prepare for life after high school.
“A student’s interests can be a starting point for a future career but understanding how to turn those interests into a plan matters just as much,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, executive director of MiLEAP. “By bringing career exploration, academic preparation and financial aid information together, MI Kickoff helps students better understand what it takes to pursue the futures they envision for themselves.”
During the event, students rotated through six workshops focused on career exploration, financial aid, academic preparation, health care, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. MiLEAP’s Office of Higher Education team also led an interactive game of Financial Aid Jeopardy, helping students build their knowledge of financial aid and college funding options. The workshops gave students opportunities to prepare for academic assessments and explore future opportunities.
The event also featured an appearance from Detroit recording artist Casada Sorrell, professionally known as Sada Baby, who connected with students through conversations about their interests, aspirations and future opportunities.
“We were proud to welcome more than 300 students to our campus for a day focused on exploring opportunities and planning for the future,” said Dr. Brian M. Singleton, president of WCCCD’s Curtis L. Ivery Downtown Campus and vice chancellor for Student Services. “At WCCCD, we believe student success begins long before a student enrolls. For many young people, the opportunity to experience a college campus, explore career possibilities and connect with people who believe in their potential can make a lasting difference. Events like this allow us to introduce students to opportunities they may not have considered, help them understand the resources available to them and encourage them to begin thinking seriously about their future. We appreciate our partnership with MiLEAP in making this experience possible.”
The regional MI Kickoff series is part of MiLEAP’s efforts to expand postsecondary access for young men, a priority highlighted in the Office of Strategic Talent Preparation’s (OSTP) 2026 Vision and Impact Report. The series also advances Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal of increasing the share of working-age adults with a postsecondary credential to 60% by 2030.
“If Michigan is to advance, we have to be intentional about connecting boys and men with opportunities to continue their education and prepare for high-demand careers,” said Jason Wilson, deputy director MiLEAP OSTP. “That’s what makes these Regional MI Kickoff events so important. They allow us to hear directly from young men across the state, connect them with resources and introduce them to educational and career pathways they may not have considered. We thank Wayne County Community College District for partnering with us to bring these opportunities to students in Detroit and help them see what’s possible for their future.”
According to the MI Data Center, 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.
The event was the third of five regional MI Kickoff events taking place across Michigan this fall.
Upcoming regional MI Kickoff events include:
Read the original announcement for more information about the regional series and MiLEAP’s broader efforts to strengthen postsecondary pathways for men and boys.
To learn more about MiLEAP’s work to identify and support all Michiganders who face barriers to education and career advancement, visit the Office of Strategic Talent Preparation (OSTP) webpage.
###
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.
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.
Media Contact:
