Enrollment is a record high for the Baker College of Cadillac direct credit program that allows high school juniors and seniors to earn transferable college credits. More than 1,150 students in 29 high schools and technical centers across northern Michigan are taking advantage of the Baker College coursework offered at their schools at no cost to the students or their families.

The program has grown dramatically since 2011 when enrollment was approximately 200 students.

“We had been offering direct credit to students at several technical centers for many years,” recalled Kelly Smith, Baker College of Cadillac president. “In 2011, we began to hear from more schools interested in the program, and we devoted resources to offer it beyond the Cadillac area. The response has been tremendous.”

The increased enrollment in the high school direct credit program is resulting in changes within the admissions office. Audrey Charmoli has transitioned from director of admissions to direct credit coordinator, and Cheri Sprik will succeed Charmoli as director of admissions, a role she temporarily held last year while Charmoli was on maternity leave.

Charmoli joins Maynard Thompson, former Baker College of Cadillac president who is also a direct credit coordinator, in administrating the direct credit program. They visit participating high schools, monitor the college courses offered at the schools and communicate with students and school administration.

Charmoli joined Baker College in 2008 and has led the admissions department since 2010. She previously taught high school health at Manton Consolidated Schools for five years. A Cadillac resident, Charmoli holds a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary education from Western Michigan University.

As director of admissions, Sprik, of Cadillac, is responsible for new student enrollment, marketing efforts of Baker College's Cadillac campus and leading the admissions department. She brings 17 years of experience at Baker College to her new position. She previously served as assistant director of admissions and admissions advisor. A native of Houghton Lake, Sprik earned a Bachelor of Science degree at Central Michigan University.

“We are extremely fortunate to have Audrey and Cheri in the admissions office,” Smith said. “They are passionate about their new positions and about providing the best service to those who have turned to Baker College to pursue higher education.”

High school students and their parents interested in more information about the Baker College direct credit program should contact the student’s school counselor. School administrators seeking more information about the direct credit program should contact Maynard Thompson in the admissions office at 888.313.3463, 231.876.3119 or maynard.thompson@baker@edu.