AIC Enters Pathway to College Partnership with Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership

AIC will provide credit-bearing college classes for students at Duggan Academy

High school students at John J. Duggan Academy in Springfield, MA, have an opportunity to embark on an Early College experience, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between American International College (AIC) and the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership (SEZP). This unique collaboration opens doors for students to gain academic advancement while still in high school.

Under the three-year agreement, AIC will offer credit-bearing college classes that will set Duggan Academy students on a path to success. A key highlight of this partnership is the commitment to postgraduate matriculation and course requirements. Participating Duggan students who earn a minimum of twelve college credits and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 by the end of the twelfth grade will receive guaranteed admission to AIC. Those who complete the associate degree program will secure guaranteed admission and receive a $4,000 scholarship to attend AIC.

In addition to course offerings, AIC will provide advising and academic support services, instructional materials, and an overnight summer program on the AIC campus exclusively for Duggan’s Early College students. Recognizing the importance of a well-rounded experience, the College will also organize enriching student and family activities, orientation experiences, and co-curricular events to ensure a seamless transition, credit accrual, and student support.

“This agreement between AIC and SEZP demonstrates a joint commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and support for Duggan Academy students,” said Michael Dodge, AIC Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “With these measures in place, this partnership will contribute to the students’ academic and personal growth, opening doors to new opportunities and paving the way for their success.”

Duggan Academy Principal, Michael Calvanese, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with AIC as we evolve our high school into an early college model at Duggan. Our students’ enthusiasm and readiness for this unique opportunity are matched only by our deep appreciation for AIC’s exceptional leadership in driving this initiative forward for the benefit of Duggan and Springfield’s future generations.”

On Tuesday, July 18th, AIC welcomed Duggan Academy students and teachers to campus to mark the beginning of this new partnership. One group took part in health sciences simulations, gaining practical insights for those interested in pursuing health-related careers. Another group attended a demonstration by K-9 officers presented by the Springfield Police Department, designed for students considering a career path in criminal justice. The day culminated in a tour of the College, allowing these aspiring college students to familiarize themselves with the AIC campus.

The signing of this agreement between AIC and SEZP stands as a testament to the College’s commitment to community engagement and academic revitalization outlined in the College’s five-year strategic plan, AIC Reimagined. The partnership is fueled by a shared vision of empowering Duggan students by providing the tools and support they need to shape a bright future.