A new partnership between Reedley College and UC Merced is designed to expand opportunities for students to remain in the Central Valley and seamlessly transfer after completing their community college studies.
The partnership, known as the Merced Promise, will strengthen and streamline transfer pathways from Reedley College to UC Merced, supporting an efficient and successful transition into the University of California system. Leaders from both institutions commemorated the partnership during a signing ceremony, alongside faculty members, counselors and students.
Through the Merced Promise, the institutions will align coursework, expand advising and outreach efforts, and engage students as early as middle school to ensure they are prepared and supported every step of the way. The agreement also emphasizes affordability and access, including guaranteed admission for eligible students and financial aid opportunities aimed at making a four-year degree more attainable for Valley students.
“Year after year, we see Reedley College students arrive at UC Merced exceptionally well prepared: intellectually curious, resilient, and motivated to make a difference for their families and for the Valley,” said Scott Hagg, UC Merced vice chancellor for enrollment management. “Reedley has long demonstrated the quality of its students, the strength of its academic preparation, and a deep and enduring commitment to serving students from the Central Valley.”
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to building stronger educational pathways for students across the San Joaquin Valley while helping meet the region’s growing workforce and economic needs.
“This is a very important day for Reedley College because it means that we’ll be able to transfer more students who are UC transfer-ready and might not have made that transfer otherwise,” said Reedley College President Jerry Buckley.
The agreement also highlights the importance of creating opportunities for students to see higher education as accessible and achievable.
“When institutions invest in their students, they are investing in future leaders and professionals,” said Sarahi Sanchez Soto, president of Reedley College’s Associated Student Government. “When students know there is a pathway designed to help them succeed, it gives them confidence, motivation, and hope for their future. Programs and partnerships like this remind students that their goals are possible and that their education matters.”
The Merced Promise builds on UC Merced’s ongoing efforts to expand college access throughout the Central Valley through partnerships with Madera Community College, Las Positas College, Yosemite Community College District, Fresno City College and Merced College.
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