Bay Mills Community College and Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe Community College Forge New Pathway for Early Childhood Educators

Brimley, MI – In a significant move to support Tribal College students and strengthen the regional early childhood workforce, Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) and Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe Community College (KBOCC) formally signed an articulation agreement on Tuesday, November 24, 2025. The agreement creates a seamless pathway for KBOCC students to enter BMCC’s Bachelor of Arts program in Early Childhood Education (ECE), outlining 58-59 credits that will transfer seamlessly between the recently updated programs. 

“I’m thrilled to see us working together to strengthen Tribal higher education and grow the early childhood workforce, said Dr. Duane Bedell, BMCC President. “This is how we invest in our future: one student, one family, one community at a time.” 

The partnership directly addresses a critical need for qualified professionals in tribal and rural communities. “This articulation strengthens pathways for students to pursue education rooted in their culture and community,” said Heather Stelzer, BMCC Department Chair. “It ensures that current and future early childhood educators are supported, connected, and empowered to bring culturally grounded care to the next generation.” 

The signing ceremony highlighted the collaborative spirit between the two Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). KBOCC’s delegation included Interim President Haataja; ECE Department Chair Ashley Hebert; and Registrar Kalyn Isaacson. BMCC was represented by President Dr. Duane Bedell; Vice President of Academic Affairs Samantha Cameron; Department Chair Heather Stelzer; and ECE faculty members Kris Nance and Kimberly Pinson. 

“This agreement provides our students with a seamless pathway to continue their education after KBOCC while remaining close to home and supported by the systems they trust,” said Megan Haataja, KBOCC Interim President and Dean of Academic Affairs. “It also strengthens the early childhood workforce at a time when our communities greatly need qualified professionals to serve local children and families.” 

About Bay Mills Community College: 
BMCC, located in Brimley, Michigan, is a tribally controlled community college chartered by the Bay Mills Indian Community. It is dedicated to providing quality, accessible post-secondary education that fosters lifelong learning and community development. 

About Keweenaw Bay Ojibwe Community College: 
KBOCC, located in Baraga, Michigan, is a tribally controlled community college chartered by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Its mission is to provide lifelong holistic education for the Ojibwe and other people by promoting sovereignty, self-determination, and contemporary life ways.