Monday, April 21, 2025

Muskegon Community College (MCC) has entered into a new Academic Partnership Agreement with Trinity Health Muskegon (THM) and Trinity Health Grand Rapids. The agreement was recently signed by MCC President Selmon and Shannon Striebich, President and CEO of Trinity Health.

Under this partnership, THM will provide financial support for 25 nursing students and 10 respiratory therapy students at MCC, assisting with tuition costs to help alleviate financial barriers. The Tuition Assistance Program will cover expenses for core nursing courses for eligible students during the program’s duration. Each student will be eligible for up to $10,000 per semester for two semesters, with a maximum total of $20,000 in tuition assistance. Participants will be chosen through an application process managed by Trinity Health.

“This partnership with Trinity Health represents a meaningful step in addressing both the educational and workforce needs of our community,” said Muskegon Community College President, Dr. John Selmon. “By providing financial support to our nursing and respiratory therapy students, we are not only making higher education more accessible; but also ensuring that our local healthcare system has the skilled professionals it needs to serve the Muskegon area.”

In exchange for the financial support, graduates of the program will commit to working for Trinity Health for 18 months. This initiative is aimed at strengthening the health professions workforce in Muskegon County by providing well-trained graduates to meet the region’s healthcare needs.

“By supporting the education of nursing and respiratory therapy students, we are not only investing in their future but also the future of healthcare in Muskegon County,” said Trinity Health Chief Nursing Officer, Linda Dunmore. “We look forward to welcoming these talented individuals into our organization, where they will contribute to the high-quality care that Trinity Health is known for.”

Lisa Gatti-Arnold, Dean of Nursing and Health Programs at MCC, emphasized the impact of the initiative on student success and workforce development. “This agreement is a game-changer for our students. By removing financial obstacles, we’re opening the door for more individuals to pursue careers in nursing and respiratory therapy. At the same time, we’re helping meet the urgent demand for qualified healthcare professionals in our community.”

MCC’s Deb Grube, Director of the Respiratory Therapy Program, has also contributed to the development of the partnership.