About T2C Studio

T2C Studio | Grand Rapids Center for College Success

T2C Studio is the home of the To College, Through College (T2C) program — an initiative of Our Community’s Children, a public/private partnership between the City of Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Public Schools. Together, we’re working to break down the barriers that keep Grand Rapids students from earning a college degree, giving current and future students guidance, academic resources, and help finding financial aid.

We Are Dedicated

Vision

The future of Grand Rapids lies with a strong, educated pool of talent. Our vision is of a city where everyone, in particular first-generation students and persons of color, has the tools to succeed in postsecondary education.

Mission

It is our mission to engage the community in breaking down barriers to student success. Through a collective and aligned community response, we provide current and future students with guidance, academic resources, and financial assistance resources.

Goals

Our goal is to increase the number of Grand Rapids Public School students who attain postsecondary credentials, Associate’s, and Bachelor’s degrees from 18% to 40%. We also strive to close the attainment and retention gaps in communities of color.

T2C Studio is one of several initiatives run by Our Community’s Children (OCC), a partnership of the City and Grand Rapids Public Schools dedicated to preparing every child for college, work, and life. OCC also leads the Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) Network, which connects younger students with quality after-school programming — so by the time a student walks through T2C Studio’s doors, the support has often already begun. Learn more about Our Community’s Children at ourcommunityschildren.com, and about after-school programming through the ELO Network at eloafterschool.com.

In The Studio

You’re not in this alone! In the T2C Studio we can help you, one-on-one, with your college process and help support you as you go through college. We have a collection of college and community partners that are here to help you along this journey. Come visit us on the 3rd floor of the Grand Rapids Public Library!

See The Studio

Our Structure

Our Community’s Children

Our Community’s Children is a public-private partnership between the City of Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Public Schools, and community partners. They work to provide access and opportunities for children and youth to be successful in college, work, and life.

The To College, Through College Program

The To College, Through College is a multi-sector initiative comprised of the City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Public Schools, higher education partners, community, businesses, and KConnect. The TCTC Leadership Council meets monthly at City Hall, 300 Monroe Ave. TCTC has several sub-committees that work to support the T2C Studio including: Student WrapAround Services, Evaluation, Retention Pathways to Degree, and Fund Development.

The T2C Studio Initiative

Located at the Grand Rapids Public Library, the T2C Studio: Grand Rapids Center for College Success is a community place-based response that engages higher education and the community in breaking down barriers to student success. The T2C Studio is the bridge from high school to college completion for students needing assistance in getting to and through college.

The T2C Studio Team

Getting to and through college isn’t easy. We’ve got your back.

Want to join? We’re always looking for volunteers, interns, and donors.

Get Involved

Shannon L. Harris

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OCC

Gina Peters

T2C Coordinator