Calvin University receives funding from AT&T for Wayfinder Program

Calvin University has received $50,000 from AT&T to supply low-income adult students in the Wayfinder Program with the technology they need to work toward a college education. The Wayfinder Program offers many supports to students in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, and access to free technology is just the latest on the list.

According to an article on Calvin University’s website, Greg Elzinga, the president of the university, was quoted as saying of the financial contribution, “Today, we are thrilled to announce a partnership that addresses these gaps and paves the road to success. Thanks to a $50,000 contribution from AT&T we are taking a major step forward to bridging that digital divide that so often limits higher education.”

The Wayfinder Program serves economically disadvantaged students by providing them with up to eight free college credits that are transferable to the program or school of their choice. The program is for individuals who don’t already have a bachelor degree and are facing financial hardships that would otherwise keep them out of the classroom. According to the Wayfinder Program webpage, “This program is designed for eager adults who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree and bring enthusiasm for learning alongside their rich life experiences. In a cohort of 15-25 students, you'll take three courses that combine art history, philosophy, literature, U.S. history, critical thinking, and writing.”

In a survey of the program’s applicants, it was discovered that 90% of those interested in the program did not have the technology necessary to participate, and a nearly equal percentage of the applicants felt they did not have the digital know-how they would need to keep up with the classes. The funding provided by AT&T will provide laptops, software for use in classes, and digital literacy support to students to ensure they can get the most out of the Wayfinder Program.

Tim Weststrate, a Calvin University graduate and the director of external affairs for AT&T Michigan, said of the company’s contribution, “The Wayfinder program will open new doors of opportunities for adults in need in Grand Rapids and we are very proud to support the Wayfinder Program with our $50,000 AT&T contribution. Because we know that when we connect people to the internet, we are connecting them to greater possibilities.”

In addition to free college credits and free technology, the Wayfinder Program also provides its participants with a number of benefits and perks, including childcare, transportation, dinner during class, and all books needed for class. These benefits go a long way toward introducing adults to a better future for themselves and their families.

Lexie Zuno, a student in the first cohort of the Wayfinder Program, explained, “It was like I was in a world full of so many opportunities, but I didn’t have the key to open the doors to those opportunities. Those doors are open now and I can now pick what I want. It’s crazy, once you get through that door you see all these opportunities and now you have a new problem, you don’t know what you want to do, there are so many options.”

Applications are now being accepted for the 2025 cohort of the Wayfinder Program. In order to be eligible, an individual must reside in the Greater Grand Rapids Area, be at least 18 years old, demonstrate financial barriers to education, and not have completed a bachelor degree. Students do not need to have a GED to participate.

For more information about Calvin University, visit the school’s website.