LIVONIA, MICH. – Madonna University recently celebrated the successful completion of its inaugural Bridge Program, an innovative initiative designed to give incoming students a comprehensive head start on their college journey.
The residential program, which ran from June 22 through July 2, 2025, provided participants with an immersive college experience that went beyond traditional orientation programs, offering advanced academic preparation, leadership development, and professional networking opportunities.
Vice President of Admissions and Marketing, Trish Everett, said “Our goal was to help students feel confident, build community, and engage with staff, faculty, and administrators. Seeing their transformation over such a short time was truly inspiring.”
Over 11 days, students participated in a comprehensive curriculum designed to accelerate their college readiness. The program included:
The residential component provided students with authentic college living, including structured study groups, peer collaboration sessions, and social leadership activities. Living on campus throughout the program allowed students to take full advantage of opportunities like exclusive presentations from State Representative Joe Tate and former NFL player TJ Duckett, networking events with university leaders and community professionals, and a Detroit Tigers baseball game outing for team building. Students also participated in an intensive retreat experience at Maryville Retreat Center with advanced team-building activities, enjoyed a personal conversation with Madonna University President Chris Dougherty, and engaged in cultural leadership development at the Charles H. Wright Museum. Students developed strong connections with faculty, staff and fellow participants while mastering campus resources and systems.
Madonna University's Bridge Program represents an investment in student success, providing participants with advanced preparation that positions them to be campus leaders from their first semester. The program's comprehensive approach ensures students enter their college careers with confidence, connections, and cutting-edge skills. Prior to a graduation ceremony to recognize student achievements through the program, students gave capstone presentations to showcase their learning and growth, demonstrating how the intensive experience had prepared them to excel in their upcoming college journey.
