KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Gift giving has become part of the infrastructure of Kalamazoo, where The Kalamazoo Promise, The Foundation for Excellence, and now WMU’s new Bronco Promise are in place.
But do they work?
If you ask Sarah Giramia, it’s made all the difference in the world.
Sarah Giramia. (Image courtesy John McNeil).
“I am a Kalamazoo Public Schools Teacher, a WMU Alum, and a Kalamazoo Public Schools Graduate,” Giramia said. “And I would be none of that without the Kalamazoo Promise.”
She is exactly the student that the unique scholarship program was designed to help, and is now a full time member of the city’s skilled workforce.
She says that will only be enhanced by the support that will be offered by WMU’s new donor supported programs.
“College has many hurdles and obstacles and takes adjustment,” Giramia said. “But the weight of those things can be felt less with the right support.”
She adds that her students don’t appreciate it now, but they will later.
It’s hard to quantify the impact of the major gifts on the larger community, but the Upjohn Institute says The Promise has significantly increased college enrollment & graduation rates and the resulting economic benefits.
— Copy written by John McNeil —
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