CLC announces success of Learn and Earn Program 

Central Lakes College is proud to announce the success of its pilot Learn and Earn Program, with the awarding of three student scholarships with Grand View Lodge, Spa & Golf Resort. 

Scholarship recipients include: Taylor Hayford (Accounting – AAS), James Gedde (Associate of Arts), and Zachary Nelson (Business Transfer Pathway). 

In its first semester, the Learn and Earn Program benefits both CLC students and local businesses. Students apply to open positions with an area business that focuses on the students’ career path and if employed, are eligible to receive a scholarship. In addition to being awarded a scholarship from the respective businesses, the student also gains professional experience, along with a paying job during their academic program at CLC. Further, students receive specialized academic and career coach services at CLC. 

“The college and the foundation benefit from relationships with businesses in the community to leverage resources and services for our students,” said Kate Adornetto, CLC Foundation Director. “We have had several businesses support the Learn and Earn concept and I feel confident that we will continue to build strong community partnerships for our students.” 

The program also helps local businesses recruit CLC students to be new employees in their organization while attending college.  

“We need people, and what better resource than our closest community college, Central Lakes College. This program gives us an opportunity to find qualified employees, while helping them pursue their professional, career dreams,” said Grand View Company Director of Human Resources Merrick Dresnin. “Learn & Earn is a win-win-win. It’s great for Grand View Lodge Spa & Golf Resort, great for CLC, and fantastic for our community’s brightest students!” 

Scholarship recipient Hayford said “The Learn and Earn Scholarships are helping me learn how to balance my responsibilities, while also meeting new people!” 

Fellow recipient Nelson added, “It’s a great opportunity! You get a good job that pays decent and get a scholarship on top of that!” 

Central Lakes College will open the Learn and Earn application on May 1 for Fall placement. 

More about the program: www.clcmn.edu/learn-and-earn-scholarship-program/