15 Year Book - Flipbook - Page 204
DETROIT COLLEGE
ACCESS NETWORK
The Detroit College Access Network (DCAN) is a collaborative network between local schools,
organizations and the community that uses collective impact to align and connect existing
programs, schools, businesses and community resources to improve college enrollment and
graduation rates for all Detroit students. DCAN’s mission is to promote higher education in
Detroit and make a college degree or credential a reality. DCAN serves as the citywide
coordinating body for college access and enrollment strategies in Detroit.
SPOTLIGHT
Decision Day, also known as National College Decision Day, is a favorite among the community. It marks the deadline for high
school seniors to make their final college decisions and submit their enrollment deposits. Decision Day’s history can be traced back
to the early 2000s when the National Association for College Admission Counseling suggested the establishment of a national
response date for college acceptances. Prior to this, colleges and universities had different deadlines for admission acceptance,
which caused confusion and added stress for students and families. Decision Day’s goal is to provide students with a clear and
uniform date by which they must commit to a college, enabling them to fully consider their options and choose the best school for
their educational needs. It also allows colleges and universities to gauge their incoming class size and make necessary adjustments.
DCAN has a rich history with Decision Day—First Lady Michelle Obama and Ciara have both come to Wayne State University to
congratulate students on making the choice to further their future. In 2023, DCAN hosted nine high schools, and over 600 students
for Decision Day. And in 2024, the number of schools increased to 13 schools with over 1,400 students in attendance! DCAN will
continue to shine a light on students with their post-secondary decisions and accomplishments for years to come.
