Building Pathways in Michigan: Advancing Student Success and Strengthening the Workforce 2026

The American Council on Education's (ACE) Building Pathways Initiative is a limited series of state convenings designed to advance student success by elevating and connecting state-led priorities with national insights. This in-person convening---generously hosted by Kalamazoo College with funding from the Imaginable Futures Foundation---brings together Michigan's higher education leaders alongside employers, students, and state partners to explore how targeted support for student parents creates models that benefit all student populations, particularly students who face barriers to access and completion. Michigan is driving innovation with programs that connect education to employment while addressing the evolving needs of tomorrow's learners---student parents, working adults, and underrepresented students---all of whom are essential to strong states and thriving communities. This convening will build on that momentum by facilitating cross-sector discussions; sharing research insights from Urban Institute on student parents with applications to additional underrepresented populations; demonstrating strategic workforce partnerships from the Business--Higher Education Forum; and more. By anchoring this convening in Michigan's higher education community and engaging cross-sector partners, we will strengthen our shared commitment to student access, success, and earnings.