Gateway Technical College and George Williams College of Aurora University (GWC), located in Williams Bay, signed two transfer agreements today, giving students in nursing and human services expanded educational and career opportunities.

The agreement provides a seamless opportunity for Gateway graduates to continue their education and complete a bachelor’s degree in human services and nursing science from GWC. Prior academic coursework will be fully recognized and transferable towards the completion of those degrees, saving tuition costs and providing a smooth transfer to a four-year college for those wishing to do so.

“I am proud to be here today to celebrate two articulation agreements, which will help build pathways for our students from Gateway to George Williams College,” said Gateway Technical College President and CEO Bryan Albrecht. 

“We try to find ways to support the changing dynamics of industry and the job market of our graduates, and do it in an way that will allow them as smooth as a transition as possible. This articulation agreement from Gateway to George Williams is one of those ways to create a pathway for that transition.”

“Students who choose to come to George Williams early in their education will know that we promise, together, to help them finish their education,” said Donna DeSpain, Aurora University senior vice president for enrollment, “This means they won’t have to go to five or six other schools and worry if their credits will transfer. Students can begin at Gateway – and have a smooth transition to George Williams College and complete their degree.”

The articulation agreement was signed today at GWC and extends an existing partnership with Gateway in other areas of study.

“This transfer agreement is exciting in that it calls for dual enrollment,” said Zina Haywood, Gateway executive vice president and provost. “That means the student is enrolled as a George Williams College student as well as Gateway student.”

The nursing agreement provides for Gateway students to enter the bachelor of nursing program at George Williams College, while the human services agreement provides for students to enter the bachelor of social work program at GWC.

“For our nursing students, there is a lull sometimes between when they finish their general education requirements and start their clinical courses,” said Haywood. “Now, they won’t have to take courses that may be unrelated to their degree – they can take courses at George Williams College at that time. It will be great for our students, as they begin their baccalaureate courses early, before they even finish their associate degree.“