Board hears MJ Foster Promise update; staff stress need for $14.5M in executive budget to continue program

Board staff provided an update on the MJ Foster Promise program, reporting recent spending and the program’s capacity for additional enrollments.

Presenters said the program had $804.49 remaining in available intake funds as of the morning update and that the program has served roughly 10,000 people and produced about 6,000 graduates. Staff emphasized that the program operates on a first‑come, first‑serve basis and that additional appropriations from the Division of Administration would allow continued funding of eligible students. The presenters noted the governor’s executive budget included an additional $14.5 million intended to support MJ Foster for the next fiscal year; staff said that level of funding would significantly expand enrollment and credential attainment.

Regents asked for ROI data and program details; academic staff cited an average annual income increase for graduates (presented as roughly $36,000) and discussed administrative capacity, noting the statutory allowance of 3% for administrative costs on appropriations. Board members asked for further program and provider breakdowns and staff agreed to supply more detailed data.