SOUTH BEND — President Barack Obama's proposal to fund two years of free college for all Americans has some enthusiastic supporters among Ivy Tech Community College students.
"I think this is the best idea I've heard of in my life," said Nnenia Okereke, 21, of South Bend. Facing family financial challenges, Okereke said she waited for two years after earning her high school diploma to enroll at Ivy Tech.
Because of grants and scholarships, she expects to graduate debt-free with her associate degree. Even for students who can afford tuition, two years of free college would be good for the nation, Okereke said. "It's going to push more responsible students into college and help them," she said.
She was among a group of Ivy Tech students and employees who gathered on campus Wednesday to watch a live video feed of Obama's appearance at Macomb Community College in Warren, Mich., to push his America's College Promise plan.
The proposal would fund two years of community college for any student who attends school at least half time, maintains at least a 2.5 grade-point average and makes steady progress toward completing their program.
"A person who wants to better themselves should not have to worry about financial aid," said Ivy Tech student Cassiday Scott, 18, of Mishawaka.