OAKLAND, Calif., January 8, 2024 – Free College continues at Laney for the upcoming Spring semester with enrollment events on January 13 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., marking the two-year anniversary of a groundbreaking effort that has seen massive enrollment increases, especially among African American, Latinx, and Asian students.
“We hope to see many students at graduation later this year who can say they benefited from Free College at Laney over the past two years,” said College President, Dr. Rudy Besikof.
As with previous semesters, the program covers more than tuition. “Students who enroll will continue to receive free books, lunch, parking, and A-C transit passes,” noted Vice President of Administrative Services, Dr. Dettie Del Rosario.
To qualify, students must be California residents, apply for Financial Aid or submit Dream Act applications (for undocumented students), and enroll in a minimum of 6 units. Students who can graduate with fewer than 6 units in May are exempt from the minimum.
As Laney continues to promote the benefits of college, it is amplifying its emphasis on welcoming new students as well as encouraging them to re-enroll in a 2nd, 3rd, and 4th semesters so they earn their 2-year degree, or the shorter certificate that has students entering and advancing in the workforce.
Part of the emphasis for the year has also involved students completing a Student Education Plan. “The plans provide every community college student a map that shows courses students take each semester, all the way to graduation, "shared Vice President of Student Services, Dr. Marlon Hall.
As the two-year anniversary of Free College approaches, Laney students are now taking more classes and becoming part of the community at Laney, something shared by Dr. Becky Opsata, who serves as the Vice President of Instruction. "Whether it is a student club, or an amazing support community such as Umoja/Ubaka, Puente, or our APASS AAPI programs, students are finding their educational home with us, coupled with a sense of belonging.”
Since Free College started at Laney two years ago, East Bay communities are accessing higher education. 38% more Latinx students attend compared to 2 years prior, with increases of 34.7% and 11.5% among African American and Asian/Pacific Islander students, respectively.
To enroll in classes and learn more about the Spring is Free initiative, the public may visit Laney College’s website at https://laney.edu/spring-is-free-in-2024/ or call the Laney College SOAR office at (510) 464-6929 or 464-3284. The College will also be opening its doors for One-Stop Saturday on January 13 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to assist the community with all aspects of joining the College, from initial registration all the way to purchasing textbooks for the semester.