Our Story

Built by Detroit.
For Detroit Students.

From a grassroots coalition to an independent nonprofit — a decade of opening doors to college for Detroit's young people.

OUR BEGINNINGS

In 2013,

a cross-sector coalition of partners came together around one shared goal: get more Detroit students to complete the FAFSA. Anchored by Excellent Schools Detroit, the team included the Detroit Regional Chamber, Michigan College Access Network, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, The Skillman Foundation, Accounting Aid Society, and school leaders across the city.

54%→73%

FAFSA completion rate — in a single year

>50%

of Detroit high schools surpassed 70% completion

EXPANDING OUR IMPACT

Building on years of programming and community relationships, DCAN has grown its reach through two expanded initiatives designed to meet students wherever they are in their postsecondary journey.

  • COLLEGE ACCESS & SUCCESS

    Graduate 313

    Near-peer advising, one-on-one coaching, and continuous support for students, adult learners, and families — from middle school through college completion

  • PERSISTENCE & COMPLETION

    Detroit Alumni Success Collective (DASC)

    A citywide collaborative aligning community-based organizations to improve college persistence and strengthen supports once students enroll.

How we Grew.

  • 2015 - Detroit students began engaging in Decision Day celebrations, college access workshops, and campus tours — the foundation of a citywide college-going culture. With seed funding from Michigan College Access Network, the Council of Michigan Foundations, and Lumina Foundation, DCAN was formally established as Detroit's college access intermediary.

  • 2023 - DCAN began a strategic transition toward independence — reflecting the expansion of its services and growing role as a backbone organization for college access and success in Detroit.

  • 2025 - DCAN officially became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, marking a shift from a campaign-based approach to a comprehensive, student-centered strategy supporting Detroit students across the full postsecondary journey.

Today.

DCAN serves as a connector, convener, and catalyst for postsecondary success in Detroit — working alongside schools, community organizations, and partners to ensure every student has a clear path to their future. From FAFSA completion to college enrollment, persistence, and graduation, we remain committed to removing barriers and creating opportunity for Detroit students and families.