For Macomb nursing student and single mother Ashtar “Stella” Saffar, scholarships have made the difference between working to provide for her family or attending school.

“As a single parent, the scholarships have impacted me tremendously at Macomb. They have offered me stability to continuously study and not have to worry about income,” Stella said.

Stella qualified for Michigan Reconnect, a scholarship that provides tuition-free education for community college students aged 25 and older. The scholarships she received through the Macomb Foundation covered expenses such as fees and books.

“The scholarships mean a lot to me. I do not have to worry about having to work. I’m able to focus on school and what I’m studying,” Stella said.

On Macomb’s Giving Day, May 1, 2025, supporters of the college are encouraged to donate or pledge any amount to support students like Stella, who have been able to pursue their education thanks to generous donations.

“The return on investment is so large when you consider you are giving somebody the option of getting an education no matter where they are in life,” said Diane Banks, director of the Macomb Foundation.

Giving Day highlights and focuses on key areas of need

Macomb’s goals for Giving Day include building awareness and excitement about Macomb, attracting new donors and re-engaging with past donors. Another goal is to engage with alumni who have benefited from the education they received at Macomb.

“We aim to achieve 501 gifts on 5-1, including pledges and other types of support,” Banks said.

In addition, sponsor First State Bank will match every gift up to $15,000, making Giving Day the ideal time to give to the college.

The key areas of need include:

• Scholarships for part-time students: Addresses the significant need for financial support
• Books, equipment and laptops: Covers essential fees outside of tuition
• Workforce and Continuing Education (WCE): Ensures support for WCE students who don’t typically receive other types of financial aid
• Arts and culture: Supports enrichment programs through the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts and the Lorenzo Cultural Center 

Donors can choose any area or fund to support, ensuring their contributions make a meaningful impact, Banks said. Every gift, regardless of the amount, is appreciated and counts towards Giving Day.

“We're incredibly excited to launch this initiative,” Banks said. “The digital focus of Giving Day allows us to reach out to alumni and supporters more effectively, tapping into an untapped opportunity.”

To learn more about Giving Day and to donate, visit our Giving Day webpage.