FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2025
Bay Mills Community College Recognized Among Top Tribal Colleges for Student Access and Post-Graduation Success
BMCC Earns Prestigious Carnegie Opportunity Colleges and Universities Classification
Brimley, MI – Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) has been named one of the nation’s leading institutions for expanding access to higher education and ensuring strong career outcomes for graduates, earning the distinguished Carnegie Opportunity Colleges and Universities (Higher Access, Higher Earnings) classification.
This recognition, awarded by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, highlights BMCC’s exceptional commitment to serving students from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds while preparing them for competitive wages after graduation. BMCC is one of the top TCU's that received the highest Student Access and Earnings Classification out of the over 40% of accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) that achieved this elite distinction, placing BMCC among the top institutions in Indian Country for student success.
“Bay Mills Community College is honored to be recognized as a Carnegie Opportunity College and University for our commitment to increasing student access and supporting strong post-graduation outcomes,” said Dr. Duane Bedell, President of Bay Mills Community College. “We are proud to stand alongside our fellow Tribal Colleges and Universities who received this prestigious classification. Congratulations to each of the institutions named for their tireless work in serving Native communities and advancing student success across Indian Country. Together, we continue to create opportunities and build brighter futures.”
The 2025 Student Access and Earnings Classification evaluates institutions based on their ability to enroll and support students from the communities they serve, as well as the earning potential of their graduates. According to Carnegie, Opportunity Colleges and Universities serve as national models for fostering equity and economic mobility.
BMCC was one of 14 TCUs to receive the highest classification, alongside peer institutions such as Dine College (AZ), Haskell Indian Nations University (KS), and Salish Kootenai College (MT). In total, over 40% of accredited TCUs earned recognition across Carnegie’s top three tiers for access and earnings outcomes.
About Bay Mills Community College
Bay Mills Community College, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a tribally
controlled institution committed to providing culturally relevant education that serves
Indigenous and non-Indigenous students alike. BMCC offers bachelors and associate
degrees, workforce training, and community programs grounded in Anishinaabe values.
About the Carnegie Classification
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is the leading framework
for recognizing institutional diversity and excellence in U.S. higher education. The Student
Access and Earnings Classification emphasizes equity and post-graduation success,
with Opportunity Colleges and Universities representing the highest standard of achievement.
Media Contact:
Chelsey Cameron
Media & Marketing Specialist
Bay Mills Community College
[email protected]