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Students cite Kansas Promise scholarship and tech‑college partnerships as pathways to careers
Summary
Technical college students and others told the Committee on Higher Education Budget that the Kansas Promise scholarship and transfer partnerships expand access and support workforce development; speakers urged broader awareness of technical programs and noted successful transfer arrangements.
Students representing technical, community and four‑year colleges described how the Kansas Promise scholarship and interinstitutional partnerships support career pathways and degree completion.
Johnny Reeves, a nursing student at Salina Area Technical College, said he learned about the Kansas Promise scholarship during Salina Tech orientation and that it "has paid for my schooling in its entirety." Reeves said the scholarship and other institutional aid allowed him to pursue an LPN‑to‑RN transition while working and caring for family. Liam Corral, a welding student at Salina Area Technical College, and other technical college speakers described strong faculty support and training that led them to recommend technical careers to peers.
Four‑year university representatives raised similar themes about transfer and partnership agreements. Paige Volgamore, student body president at Kansas State University, described expanding partnerships with Garden City Community College and said such collaborations make education more accessible to students who need to stay close to home.
Fort Hays State highlighted a cooperative relationship with Washburn Law; Ella Burrows said Fort Hays offers visits and scholarships that helped her plan for law school. She told the committee she will attend Washburn University School of Law with no student loan debt because of institutional scholarships and transfer options.
Why it matters: students said financial aid programs like the Kansas Promise scholarship and clearer pathways between technical and four‑year institutions can expand access, reduce debt and meet workforce needs. Panelists asked lawmakers to promote technical‑career options and ensure high school students hear about technical college pathways.
