Good afternoon, MCAD Community,
I’m writing to ask for your support in advocating for MCAD students, and for thousands of college students across Minnesota, who rely on the State Grant program to access and continue their education.
Funded by the state of Minnesota, the State Grant program provides essential financial support to students from low- and middle-income families. Today, however, the program faces a $131 million shortfall. Without legislative action, many students will see their grants significantly reduced, or lose them entirely, beginning next fall.
The impact of this cannot be overstated. The State Grant program supports approximately one out of every two college students in Minnesota. At MCAD, 34% of our undergraduate students rely on these grants, receiving an average award of $6,363. Without action from lawmakers, MCAD students stand to lose up to $1.6 million in financial aid—resources that make the difference between staying enrolled and stepping away.
This moment calls for collective advocacy. Lawmakers can prevent these cuts by fully funding the State Grant program during the current legislative session. While we are actively engaging with policymakers alongside other private nonprofit colleges, individual voices—such as yours— are critical in demonstrating the urgency and real-life impact of this issue.
If you live in Minnesota, I encourage you to reach out to your state legislators and ask them to fully fund the State Grant program. A sample message and a simple tool to contact your representatives are available here.
You can also learn more through the Minnesota Private College Council, including additional information on the State Grant program and its impact at MCAD by clicking here.
As a community of artists, designers, educators, and advocates, we have a powerful opportunity to speak up for our students. Your outreach can help ensure that talented, hardworking students are not forced to put their education on hold due to circumstances beyond their control.
If you are able, please act as soon as possible. Messages sent before the end of March will have the greatest impact, and sending your note today can make a meaningful difference. Thank you for standing with our students and for helping to protect access to an MCAD education.
Warmly,
Gwen