PA Community Colleges to Offer 70 New Programs for the 19-20 Academic Year
Expanding the already robust certificates, diplomas and degrees offered by Pennsylvania’s 14 community colleges, the colleges will offer 70 new programs in wide-ranging and in-demand careers for the 2019-20 academic year. The in-person and distance education opportunities include programs in STEM, hydroponic agriculture and substance abuse treatment. “As the largest provider of higher education in…
Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges Announces Prestigious Two-Year Executive Committee Appointments
The Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges (PACCC) today announced the recently elected officers to the Executive Committee of its Board of Directors. The Executive Committee leads the PACCC Board of Directors in determining the statewide direction and policy interests of its 14 community colleges. Executive Committee members serve two-year terms, which begin July 1, 2019….
Veteran Finds Job Training at Community College
Sean Kerpovich of Luzerne County decided to serve his country after the devastating terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001. He enlisted in the National Guard and, in the following decade, was deployed on three combat tours in Iraq. During that time, many changes occurred – both nationally and locally – including an economic downturn…
Penn Highlands Graduate Plans to Continue her Educational Journey
During her senior year of high school in 2017, Jenna Stevens hadn’t planned to continue her education after graduation – until the sudden realization struck her that she might need a postsecondary degree to succeed. As an average student, Jenna wasn’t even sure she could get into a college or university; but when she discovered Pennsylvania Highlands Community…
Pennsylvania Community College Students Recognized for Academic Achievements at Harrisburg Awards Banquet
The Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges (PACCC) honored the 25th Annual All-Pennsylvania Academic Team at an awards banquet in Harrisburg today. The awards recognize an exceptional group of community college students who have achieved academic excellence and demonstrated a commitment to their colleges and communities. The 2019 awardees include 47 outstanding community college transfer scholars and…
Community College Leaders and Students Advocate for Increased Funding at Capitol
Pennsylvania Community College Leaders and Students Advocate for Increased Funding at Capitol Pennsylvania ranks 48th in affordability for higher education in the United States HARRISBURG — At the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges’ Annual Lobby Day at the Capitol today, students, trustees, presidents and staff from Pennsylvania’s 14 community colleges joined together to advocate for…
Distance Education Grant Makes Online Degrees & Certificates More Affordable
In 2015, Chelsey Sirmons IV decided to change his life. Taking advantage of the Pennsylvania State Grant distance education pilot program, he was able to enroll at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) in 2017 and begin reshaping his future. In long-term recovery himself, Mr. Sirmons started at CCAC by pursuing a certificate in…
Q&A with Rep. James R. Roebuck Jr., Minority Chair of the House Education Committee
Responses provided by Rep. James R. Roebuck Jr.’s Office Q: Why is education in Pennsylvania important to you? A: As a leader in education, I recognize that the future of our economy and workforce are dependent upon a highly trained and qualified employee. I support funding for Community Colleges and the expansion of existing, and…
With Help from the KEYS Program, Single Mother Finds Success at Community College
Two years ago, Valerie Bible was a single mother of three who was working full-time in a metal coating factory. Her oldest son, who was nine at the time, knew his Mom dreamed of going to college. One day he made her a promise. “When I go to college, I’ll pay for you, Mom.” Around…
Q&A with Rep. Marcia Hahn, Community College Caucus Co-Chair
Responses provided by Rep. Marcia Hahn’s Office Q: Why is education in Pennsylvania important to you? A: Nelson Mandela framed the issue perfectly when he said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” It is something that one can take pride in as the result of hard work and…