On Sept. 25, the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Detroit Drives Degrees Community College Collaborative (D3C3) gathered at St. Clair County Community College for its annual Fall Convening. The day brought together leaders, faculty, staff, funders, and partners from across Southeast Michigan to celebrate three years of progress and to look ahead to the next phase of collective action.
Reflecting on Transformation
Colleges highlighted the ways they are transforming systems to better support students. From redesigning academic advising and expanding dual enrollment to strengthening mental health supports, the accomplishments showcased the Detroit Region’s shared commitment to equity and student success. Each strategy is grounded in a simple but powerful goal: ensuring that every student has the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Centering Student Voices
One of the most impactful moments of the day was the student panel, moderated by Pete Lacey, Chief Partnership Officer and Senior Vice President of St. Clair County Community College. Students spoke candidly about their college experiences: the challenges, wins, and support that mattered most. Their stories reminded everyone in the room why this work is urgent, and pushed institutions to stay intentional about placing student voices at the center of decision-making.
Building Momentum for What’s Ahead
The convening closed with a celebration of the many stakeholders who have shaped D3C3’s impact so far and a collective recommitment to the work ahead. Attendees left energized, inspired, and ready to advance the next phase of D3C3: driving systemic change to reduce equity gaps and increase postsecondary attainment across Southeast Michigan.
Together, this convening represents what is possible when colleges, communities, and students unite around a shared vision.