1994

1994 – Bay Mills Community College gains accreditation

Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) was chartered by the Bay Mills Indian Community (BMIC) in 1984, to meet the training needs of the Tribe’s growing workforce. From very meager beginnings, BMCC received initial accreditation in 1995, and today is a fully operating Tribal College and Land Grant Institution with an open admissions policy for students of any race, creed, color, and national or ethnic origin. The accreditation of Bay Mills Community College highlighted the importance of tribal education and the preservation of Native American cultural identity in mainstream academia. Furthermore, this historic achievement paved the way for other tribal colleges in Michigan and across the country to seek accreditation and expand opportunities for indigenous students to access culturally relevant education and pursue academic success while honoring their heritage.