November 9, 2006

WSU expands in Macomb County

Wayne State University President Irvin D. Reid commented in a story about expansion of services and programs in Macomb County. \"We pride ourselves on being one of the premier urban universities in Michigan and the nation, but we are not confined to an urban landscape.\" Macomb County has long been known as a blue collar community with a heavy emphasis on manufacturing and automotive-related jobs that have been dwindling in number due to the faltering economy. Currently, only 18 percent of local residents over the age of 25 have bachelor\'s degrees. But in the changing global economy, more workers face re-training while those new to the workplace will need an advanced educational background to compete, Wayne State officials said. \"A college degree is more than essential today,\" said Ahmad Ezzeddine, assistant dean of executive and professional development. \"These days a college degree is the equivalent of a high school degree 10 or 15 years ago. It\'s a must to have a viable career.\" Albert Lorenzo, president of Macomb Community College, said he was excited by Wayne State\'s ambitious plans. He said the University Center\'s enrollment has exceeded projections to the point where another 40,000-square-foot building for the center is under construction.

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