College wasn’t always part of Michael Ryan’s plan. After more than a decade working in information technology and facing a long stretch of unemployment, the idea of returning to school felt distant. But today, Ryan is thriving in 鶹Ƶ’s Network Administration program — thanks to a scholarship from the YVC Foundation and the support he found through YVC’s College and Career Readiness (CCR) division.
“I’ve always had a strong interest in technology,” Ryan said. “With over 10 years of experience working with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), I knew IT was the right direction for me. I wanted a degree that would complement my skills, open new career opportunities and allow me to keep growing in a field I enjoy.”
Ryan’s journey began in the CCR program, where he earned his GED and built the academic foundation needed to take the next step. He credits the program not only for strengthening his skills in math and English, but also for giving him the confidence to pursue college-level coursework.
“The CCR program was a turning point,” Ryan said. “The instructors believed in me, and that made me believe I belonged in college.”
Despite his motivation, financial challenges remained. Ryan had just started a new job and his financial situation was still tenuous following a year of unemployment. The cost of tuition threatened to derail his progress — until the YVC Foundation stepped in.
In partnership with the CCR division, the YVC Foundation launched a scholarship initiative to support students transitioning from CCR to college-level classes. The program provides scholarships to cover first-quarter tuition and fees ($1,666 for the 2025-26 academic year) for students who complete their GED or high school diploma and submit their FAFSA or WASFA.
TOP: Students listen to a lecture in an Information Technology class on YVC's Yakima Campus. ABOVE: Michael Ryan poses for a photo in the North Campus Commons courtyard.
“The additional funding was incredibly important,” said Ryan. “It helped cover costs that I wouldn’t be able to manage on my own and relieved a lot of financial stress. This support allowed me to stay focused on my classes instead of worrying about how I can afford to continue.”
The initiative was developed in response to low transition rates from CCR to college-level courses — less than 1% of students in recent years. Inspired by similar efforts at other Washington colleges, former CCR dean Marc Coomer proposed the scholarship program to help remove financial barriers and boost student success.
Stacey Kautz, executive director of the YVC Foundation, said the program reflects the Foundation’s mission to empower students and strengthen the community.
“This isn’t just about financial aid,” Kautz said. “It’s about helping students achieve their goals and build brighter futures. By supporting these learners, we’re investing in the long-term success of our region.”
For Ryan, the scholarship made all the difference. He’s now excelling in his coursework and building toward a future that includes expanding his IT consulting business and mentoring others in the field. His long-term goals include taking on leadership roles such as director or chief technology officer — and possibly continuing his education beyond an associate degree.
“My life is changing in so many positive ways,” he said. “I’m gaining confidence, direction and a clearer vision for my future. The support I’ve received — from instructors, advisors and the YVC Foundation — has opened doors I never thought possible.”
Reflecting on his journey, Ryan encourages other adult learners.
“Don’t let finances hold you back. There are resources out there, and most of what I’ve received came from simply being honest and asking for help. You’re not alone.”
As Ryan continues his journey, the YVC Foundation remains committed to helping students like him succeed — one scholarship, one story and one future at a time.
“My experience at 鶹Ƶ has been transformative,” Ryan said. “It’s given me the foundation, confidence and connections to pursue this path, and I’m deeply grateful for the supportive, inclusive and engaging environment that made it all possible.”
Story by Stefanie Menard, AA-DTA ’05, communications consultant. Photos by Matt Barton and Brandon Mendoza, graphic designers/multimedia content producers.