Aug 27
Sep 04, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 4, 2025
Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing
[email protected]
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) has renewed and expanded its longstanding tuition agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes, continuing a collaboration that began in 2009. The agreement encourages Coast Guard active-duty personnel, reserve members, civilian employees, and their spouses and dependents to pursue higher education at LSSU by significantly lowering the cost of study.
For undergraduate programs, participants continue to pay $250 per credit hour, aligning with the allowable amount offered by the Coast Guard’s tuition assistance program. This represents more than half off LSSU’s standard tuition rate. Building on this success, the 2025-2026 agreement now extends benefits to graduate studies, making advanced degrees more affordable and accessible to Coast Guard members seeking to further their education and careers.
“Lake Superior State University is proud to honor and expand our partnership with the United States Coast Guard,” said LSSU President Dr. David Travis. “This initiative reflects our mission to serve the Great Lakes region by investing in the people who protect it. Adding a graduate tuition rate strengthens our commitment to education, career advancement, and the well-being of Coast Guard families.”
The University also welcomes Captain James Bendle as Commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes, which oversees operations across Lake Superior, the St. Mary’s River, northern Lake Michigan, and northern Lake Huron, covering 1,850 miles of shoreline and 560 miles of international maritime border with Canada. With more than 750 personnel, 23 boats, and multiple mission stations, Sector NGL plays a vital role in the safety and security of the Great Lakes region.
“This tuition agreement is a tremendous resource for our service members and their families,” said Captain Bendle, “It allows them to pursue personal and professional growth while continuing their service to the nation. We value our strong relationship with Lake Superior State University and look forward to building upon this partnership.”