WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that they have secured $1.1 million in federal funding to help military servicemembers and veterans pursue their education at Alexandria Technical & Community College. This funding will go towards launching a pilot platform for a Global Military Learning Network, which will award credits for military learning and occupational experiences, streamline military admissions processes, develop a secure military-friendly enrollment portal, eliminate the cost of remedial coursework, and increase the number of military graduates available to meet workforce needs.
“This federal funding makes an important investment in our state’s veterans and servicemembers and brings them into the pipeline for our region’s workforce – a win-win,” said Klobuchar. “I am proud to have worked with Alexandria Technical and Community College leaders to secure the resources for this project and look forward to seeing the Global Military Learning Network in action.”
“Current and former members of our military deserve access to the highest quality education,” said Smith. “This program will eliminate barriers to access for our current and former military while providing them a tailored credit and enrollment system that recognizes their valuable on-the-job skills and experience. I am proud of our efforts to secure funding for this unique program, which will help serve as a model for the rest of our state’s higher education.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for Alexandria College and our partners to innovate how we deliver education and award degrees to Minnesota military service members and veterans,” said Michael Seymour, President of Alexandria Technical & Community College. “The funds support a pilot project that will serve as a proof of concept for all of Minnesota’s higher education sector. We expect the Global Military Learning Network project to increase enrollment, diversify our student body, and contribute to the nation’s workforce.”
Klobuchar and Smith helped to secure $1.1 million for this project through a process called “Congressionally Directed Spending” (CDS). During the CDS process, Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across Minnesota.
Projects are expected to receive funding over the next several months.
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