ESCANABA — Bay College announces it will serve as a frontliners champion to support the Futures for Frontliners program unveiled by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “We believe strongly that those who were required to work during the state shutdown this past spring so that the rest of us could stay safe are heroes and deserve our thanks,” said Laura Coleman, president of Bay College. “Providing frontline workers in essential industries with access to tuition-free community college — even if they don’t have their high school diploma or equivalency yet — to pursue their career and personal dreams is a wonderful way to say ‘thank you, you earned this,'” she said. Futures for Frontliners offers Michiganders who worked in essential industries during the April 1 to June 30 period but do not have a college degree free tuition to their local community college to pursue an associate degree or skills certificate on a full-time or part-time basis while they continue to work. Those without a high school diploma or equivalency will be eligible for services to help them prepare for and complete this credential and go on to a community college or job training program. The application period runs through Dec. 31. To apply, go to www.baycollege.edu/frontliners.