The Fox Valley Technical College Foundation kicked-off its Promise program before a standing ovation and members of the media on August 2.

The FVTC Promise is a fundraising campaign designed to provide free tuition and books for students planning to attend the college in fall of 2017. High school seniors in the college’s district who qualify for free or reduced school meals during the 2016-17 academic year may become a Promise Scholar the following year at FVTC. They must also maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher during their final year of high school.

In addition, the initiative is set up to help address a major shortage throughout the region for skilled talent in a variety of workforce sectors. Area employers continue to struggle to find the right skill sets that align with their workplace objectives. Low-income high students who become Promise Scholars will gain an advantage toward a better quality of life through earning a technical education.

Once enrolled at FVTC, Promise Scholars must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher and participate in community service activities as a college student. 

The August 2 kick-off event included guest speakers and a rousing address by current FVTC Industrial Welding student, Eric Gonzalez-Kaczmarek. Eric came to FVTC from a low-income beginning that consisted of some related challenges after high school. He was able to earn scholarships through the FVTC Foundation that propelled his pathway to a strong academic start and allowed him freedom to find work outside of college to balance his studies. Representing the profile of a Promise Scholar, Eric’s message to others similar to his situation embodied a sense of achievement with the right attitude, a commitment to staying focused, and through seeking supportive resources. Representing the profile of a Promise Scholar, Eric’s message to others similar to his situation embodied a sense of achievement with the right attitude, a commitment to staying focused, and the confidence to seek supportive resources.

The FVTC Promise also provides opportunities for donors to contribute toward the program by supporting about 3,000 students over the next five years. More than 2,000 high school students this fall in the college’s district already qualify for free or reduced school meals.

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