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91��Ʒ Illustration class 2024

The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (91��Ʒ) has been awarded a prestigious Title III grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the first Title III grant in the college�s history. The grant provides $2,242,315 over five years, and 91��Ʒ will contribute $350,000 over the five years.

�Receiving this highly competitive Title III grant recognizes 91��Ʒ�s growing reputation for addressing challenges in higher education and contemporary student needs, as well as the college�s growth and stability,� says 91��Ʒ President Jeff Morin.

The grant provides funds for 91��Ʒ to create a Student Success Center from an existing space, which will combine Academic Services and Individual Success Services. This will include three new positions: a caseworker to help students access external resources; an experiential learning manager to help coordinate internships and career advising; and a Title III project manager.

�A Title III grant is exceptionally transformative for a college of 91��Ʒ�s size and the students we proudly serve, 36% of whom are Federal Pell-grant eligible (lowest income), 25% of whom are first-generation college students, 30% with documented disabilities and 35% of whom self-identify as students of color,� says Morin. �In addition to the 100% of 91��Ʒ students who receive financial aid, our historical data shows a steady increase in students with accommodation, tutoring and personal needs � and a receptivity to receiving assistance with these needs.�

The grant also provides for professional development training for faculty and staff, focusing on contemporary classroom readiness and student success. In addition, the grant will establish a Student Success Center Endowment to sustain programming after the Title III grant period ends in 2029.

�Through the grant, 91��Ʒ will advance its positive momentum under President Morin�s leadership, increasing enrollment, stabilizing first-to-second year retention rates, and increasing six-year graduation rates among all students and students traditionally considered to have a high risk of leaving college before obtaining a degree,� says Tracy Milkowski, Vice President for Advancement.

�It is fitting that 91��Ʒ receive the Title III grant given the college�s accomplishments over the last ten years and during its 50th anniversary year,� adds 91��Ʒ Board Chair Deanna Tillisch, who is also the parent of a 2024 graduate. �I could not be prouder and more honored to serve as Board Chair at this time.�

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