February 24, 2017 | Issue # 081
Last week at the National Legislative Summit, I was proud—but not surprised—to see so many presidents and trustees actively engaged in advocating for their colleges and the students they serve. NLS provided a wonderful opportunity for getting educated on issues and inspiring us to act. And after meeting with and hearing from Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, we know our hard work is being recognized and that we have an opportunity to develop a relationship with the secretary and her office that will allow us to continue to advance the mission of community colleges.
“DeVos Lauds Colleges for Flexibility, Innovation”
Speaking at the Community College National Legislative Summit, U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos lauded community colleges for their flexibility, innovation and the myriad roles they play in their communities. Read about it in Community College Daily.
“Getting Students Back in the Door”
The Return to Earn program at a Colorado community college is getting students re-engaged and re-enrolled. Learn about it at the 21st Century Center.
Last Chance for AACC Pathways 2.0
There are still a few slots available for Pathways 2.0. AACC invites your college to apply for participation in Pathways 2.0, a new round of Pathways Institutes aimed at helping community colleges design and implement guided academic and career pathways at scale, for all of their students. The project is based on a model series of six institutes, each engaging five-person teams from a competitively selected group of 25 colleges. Participating colleges must commit to payment of annual fees to cover costs of project services over the 3-year period of their participation. Please contact Sarah Cale by March 3 to express your college’s interest in applying. Don’t be left out of the movement.
Vote in the AACC Board of Directors Election
Voting to elect new AACC directors and members of the Presidents Academy Executive Committee ends February 28. Voting credentials were emailed on January 30, and ballots were sent from aacc@simplyvoting.com. Cast your vote now. Questions? Contact Angel Royal.
Be Recognized at the Annual Hail & Farewell Luncheon
The Hail & Farewell Luncheon is the association’s opportunity to bid farewell to retiring CEOs and hail new and 25-year CEOs. Held during AACC’s annual convention luncheon program on April 23, 2017, Hail & Farewell (H&F) is a celebration of leadership. The deadline for submitting your materials is March 3. Individuals that have registered for the New CEO Academy must still complete the H&F form to participate in the luncheon recognition. So, if you’re a new CEO, you have been a CEO for 25 years, or you’re retiring, let us know so that we can celebrate your milestone. Submit your form today! And don’t forget to register for the convention.
If you want to get more involved on the national level, sign up to join one of nine commissions. CEOs, vice presidents/vice chancellors, associate/assistant vice presidents/vice chancellors, and provosts from AACC member colleges are eligible to apply. Appointments range from 1 to 3 years. Commissions meet twice a year, and have access to information on the latest trends and issues affecting community colleges. Sign up today. The deadline for applying for a commission appointment is May 5.
Where’s Walter
From February 13-16, I attended the National Legislative Summit. I also met with new presidents Kandi Deitemeyer and Ann Rondeau during their trips to DC.
See more Where’s Walter.