Adrian College signs partnership agreement with Lenawee Christian School
Posted Thursday, September 24, 2026
Author: Mickey Alvarado
Adrian College and Lenawee Christian School recently signed a partnership agreement to expand dual-enrollment opportunities, strengthen transfer pathways and improve access to higher education between the two institutions.
Adrian College invites selected school districts to become privileged partners in offering a range of educational opportunities to their students, staff and faculty members to meet the needs of both institutions. This includes early enrollment for students who want to get a jumpstart on their college education, designated scholarships for graduates who enroll at Adrian College and professional development opportunities for teachers and staff, drawing on the college’s extensive faculty resources.
“Strong partnerships with local schools are essential to preparing the next generation of leaders,” said Adrian College President Jeffrey Docking. “This collaboration with Lenawee Christian School reflects our commitment to expanding educational opportunities that benefit students, support educators and strengthen our community. Together, we’re creating a seamless transition to college and helping students reach their full potential.”
Adrian College has had a longstanding relationship with the Lenawee Christian School. After Orville and Ruth Merillat opened the Lenawee Christian School in 1986, they provided the core funding to build the Merillat Sport and Fitness Center on Adrian College’s campus in 1990. Their support has continued over the years, with the Merillat Foundation also supporting student scholarships, campus beautification, a library expansion and chapel renovations.
Some of the benefits and opportunities in the new partnership agreement include special admission consideration for qualified Lenawee Christian High School students who wish to attend Adrian College as part of a concurrent/dual enrollment agreement.
Automatic/direct admission will be offered for qualified Lenawee Christian High School seniors.
Adrian College has committed to keeping costs affordable for Lenawee Christian School students. The following scholarships are available to students who attend Adrian College on a full-time basis immediately following high school graduation: five Presidential Scholarships ($15,000 per academic year) and five Trustee Scholarships ($18,000 per student per academic year) for qualified students attending directly from Lenawee Christian High School.
For students who do not qualify for one of the Merit Scholarships listed above, Adrian College has committed to providing up to $14,000 in institutional need-based financial aid for any qualified graduate of Lenawee Christian High School who meets the College’s regular admission criteria. The amount includes endowed scholarships.
Opportunities for mutually beneficial collaborative outreach will be available for Lenawee Christian School faculty and staff, such as potential on-site continuing educational courses, workshops, and/or presentations covering a wide variety of academic and other educational interests.
In addition, priority response will be given to Lenawee Christian High School students regarding admissions decisions, residence hall accommodations, financial aid and other student support services.
The agreement was signed by Lenawee Christian Ministries President Tricia McGuire, Lenawee Christian Executive Director and Head of Schools Kristy Taylor, Adrian College President Docking, and Vice President of Enrollment and Student Affairs Frank Hribar.
