Scholarships are still available for adults who want to return to Riverland Community College and complete their education, but with Riverland slated to start its fall session on Monday, those interested need to act now.

The MN Reconnect program, launched in fall 2018, helps adults between the ages of 25 and 44, who previously earned 15 or more credits at a participating college, complete their certificate, diploma or associate degree. Scholarships of $1,000 per semester are available, as well as support services such as managing academic and career planning, scheduling and tutoring options, as well as assistance with financial holds.

Riverland Community College, one of four campuses participating in MN Reconnect, has scholarships available for fall semester.

In addition to Riverland Community College, three other Minnesota schools are participating in MN Reconnect: Inver Hill Community College, South Central College and Lake Superior College. Navigators at each campus work with adult learners to overcome the common barriers they may experience in a traditional college setting, such as: managing academic and career planning, scheduling and tutoring options, and accessing financial aid and other financial assistance.

The 2019 Higher Education budget bill signed by Gov. Tim Walz dedicated over $2 million for the MN Reconnect program for the next two academic years (2019-2020 and 2020-2021). This new funding will allow MN Reconnect to continue at four current locations, and offers a strong foundation for further expansion of the program.

Anyone interested in finding out more about returning to Riverland Community College can contact Amy Wagner, (507) 433-0575, amy.wagner@riverland.edu.