Mayor Eric Garcetti’s message for all LACCD Promise students

With the spring semester coming to an end, Mayor Eric Garcetti delivers a celebratory message to students.

By Cesar Padilla, Staff Writer

LA Promise Success Coach Brenda Lepe transfers a Promise sash and medallion to a graduating student of Valley College. Friday, May 14, 2021. Valley Glen, Calif. (Photo by Margarita Garushyan/The Valley Star)

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti sent LACCD Promise Program students a message of hope and celebration as the semester comes to a close.

The mayor dedicated a video acknowledging students for finishing the semester as they showed determination through obstacles that occurred this past year. Plus, he reconnected to students as to why he created LA College Promise.

“You’ve shown the dedication and the drive that will take you so far,” said Garcetti in his message. “You see, we started LA College Promise so we could make a promise to you. We made it clear that we believe in you and all that you can achieve and we want you to succeed.”

LA College Promise is a program that started in the fall of 2017. It serves first-time college students to complete their goal of earning their degree or workforce certificate. The first step is to go through the process of having the students file for their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act.

Cynthia Lopez (left), the first-year experience coordinator of the LA Promise Program at Valley College, transfers a Promise sash and medallion to the graduating student (right). Friday, May 14, 2021. Valley Glen, Calif. (Photo by Margarita Garushyan/The Valley Star)

“The Los Angeles College Promise provides two years of free enrollment to all first-time, full-time students regardless of age, income, academic standing or immigration status. Included in this program are priority enrollment, career support and counseling, and additional financial resources,” according to the LA Promise website.

Valley College students that sign up for the program will have their tuition waived for the first two semesters, be provided financial aid and offered priority registration. Monarchs also get academic services such as exclusive access to a counselor, free tutoring and progress reports.

Garcetti ensured that this program will forever stand and be provided for students. He celebrated their successes of improving college attendance and completion in Los Angeles.

“As our city starts to open back up we look forward to reconnecting with you in new ways as you continue your journey toward graduation,” said Garcetti in his message. “And I want you to know your city will always stand by you.”