Del Mar College launches Freedom to Dream tuition waiver program for local students

The Nueces County Commissioner’s Court meeting on April 9, 2025, featured a significant presentation from Marcus Camilla, the president and CEO of Del Mar College, regarding the new "Freedom to Dream" initiative. This program aims to enhance access to education for local students by providing full tuition and fees coverage for eligible participants.

Camilla explained that the initiative is a pilot program designed to support high school graduates, GED students, dual credit students, and adult learners with limited college credits. The program is specifically targeted at residents within the Del Mar College tax district, which includes the municipality of Corpus Christi and several surrounding school districts.

The "Freedom to Dream" tuition waiver program is a response to recent legislative changes that have reformed community college financing in Texas. It is intended to alleviate financial barriers for students, allowing them to pursue academic and technical training at Del Mar College. Camilla emphasized the importance of this initiative in transforming the student demographic from primarily part-time to more full-time students, thereby enhancing their chances of completing their education and entering the workforce.

The college has already begun outreach efforts, holding over a dozen informational meetings with prospective students and their families. Camilla reported that more than 1,100 students have expressed interest in the program since its announcement.

In conclusion, the "Freedom to Dream" initiative represents a pivotal opportunity for students in the Nueces County area, aiming to foster educational attainment and workforce readiness. The program is set to launch soon, with registration already underway for the upcoming academic year.