Chipotle Mexican Grill expands debt-free college benefits

The following content first appeared on the news page while UMass Global operated under its former name of Brandman University.

IRVINE, Calif. (Oct. 15, 2019) – Brandman University is joined with Chipotle Mexican Grill as the restaurant company grows its program providing employees with a path toward debt-free college.

The Newport Beach-based company announced the expansion of its Chipotle Cultivate Education program today. Brandman and other participating institutions are linked to Chipotle through Guild Education, a company that helps employers provide educational benefits through relationships with nonprofit and public universities. Other employers whose employees may enroll in Brandman programs through Guild include Discover Financial Services, Walmart and The Walt Disney Co.

“Chipotle deserves praise for making such a valuable investment in their employees that will last a lifetime. An added benefit is that we know when one member of a household gains a college credential, others are likely to follow,” Chancellor Gary Brahm said. “As the sole California-based provider within the Chipotle Cultivate Education partnership, we look forward to welcoming Chipotle employees to the Brandman family. Our faculty, coaches and academic advisors understand the needs of working adults and are here to support them.”

Chipotle's announcement comes amidst a national conversation about student debt. In September, Brahm participated in a panel talk during The Aspen Institute’s “Unpacking $1.5 Trillion: The Real Impact of Student Loan Debt and How We Turn the Page” event. Video, which includes discussion of employer-sponsored educational benefits, is available from The Aspen Institute.

ABOUT BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY
Brandman University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. As part of the Chapman University System, Brandman blends a legacy of academic excellence with innovative programs and support services designed for students with busy schedules. The university offers more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, credential and certificate programs. Brandman serves about 25,000 students at more than 25 campuses in California and Washington, as well as online. Brandman offers fully-online courses for students anywhere in the United States and for military personnel serving abroad.

Media Contacts:

Terri M. Carbaugh, Vice Chancellor of Public Affairs: Carbaugh@brandman.edu

Andrew Edwards, Senior Multimedia News Writer: Edwards1@brandman.edu