The Promise program makes strides in its campaign to fight poverty and grow the region’s economy.

The Fox Valley Technical College Promise program is making college affordable and addressing a talent shortage that’s needed to fill over 10,000 jobs in the region.

Mary Downs, executive director of the FVTC Foundation and Community Relations, describes how the program will help one young woman fulfill her dream of becoming an automotive technician. “She originally planned to work for several years to afford tuition,” says Downs. “As a Promise scholar, she can start college right after high school, stay out of debt and graduate with skills area employers need.”

So far, the Foundation has raised more than $600,000 toward its five-year goal of $1 million. “We’ve received funding from more than 200 donors,” Downs states. “Promise contributors range from individual donations to corporate gifts.”

The Foundation is working closely with high school teachers and guidance counselors to develop awareness. “About 850 high school seniors have expressed interest in the program since our launch in August,” says Downs.

The Promise program means that every eligible incoming high school student in the FVTC district can receive free tuition and books toward earning an associate degree or technical diploma. “This is a triple win that makes a significant difference to students, employers and our community,” adds Downs. 

Patrons of the Promise

To date, these organizations have supported the Promise program with major gifts of $25,000 or more:

• Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region
• Oshkosh Corporation
• Miron Construction Co., Inc.
• Plexus Corporation
• ThedaCare
• US Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation