January 19, 2018 | Issue # 105
Yesterday, the Senate Education Committee held a hearing about simplifying student aid. Russell Lowery-Hart, president of Amarillo College, spoke to the committee about the need to simplify the FAFSA, increase the maximum Pell Grant award, and increase funding for specialized programs that assist college students with housing, food, childcare, and transportation needs. On the House side, Rep. Rosa DeLauro held a panel discussion on best apprenticeship practices. Capital Community College President Wilfredo Nieves talked about his college’s work with The Hartford to launch an insurance apprenticeship program. It’s great to see community college presidents advocating for their institutions and students on Capitol Hill, and continuing to bring national visibility to community colleges.
On occasion, AACC is asked by members of Congress to recommend college leaders who can provide testimony on issues. If you have expertise in a particular area, and an interest in providing testimony, please let me know.
“Internships Help Community College Grads’ Job Prospects”
Associate-degree students with internships related to their studies are much more likely than those without such opportunities to have good job prospects upon graduation, according to a Gallup-Strada study. Learn more in CC Daily.
When Tyson Foods—a major employer—was having trouble finding skilled technicians for its Columbus Junction, Iowa, plant, Muscatine Community College—one of the three Eastern Iowa Community Colleges institutions—stepped in. Read about it at the AACC 21st Century Center.
Coming Soon: AACC Board Elections
Members will vote to elect new AACC board members in February. Your college’s membership must be current to receive your voting credentials and your ballot. Not sure if your college is an AACC member? Email AACC membership services to find out.
AACC has 10 commissions, which were established to provide advice to the AACC board and staff and to encourage collaboration among community college entities and organizations. Interested in serving on a commission? AACC is now accepting applications. 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. The deadline to submit applications is May 2.
AACC/AASA to Host College Readiness Meeting
Do you have a great college/K-12 partnership that has resulted in improved college readiness or acceleration of degree completion? If you’re interested in engaging in a national dialogue to share your programs and results, we want to hear from you. AACC and AASA, the School Superintendents Association, are partners on college readiness initiatives. This marks the fourth year of the partnership where community college CEOs and school superintendents come together to share what works, and how promising programs can be scaled. The next meeting will take place March 11–12 in Washington, DC. If you’d like to be considered for participation, please contact Tammy Reichelt.
There’s Still Time: Register for the New CEO Onboarding Seminar
AACC will offer a day-and-a-half program, “A Focus on Success for the First 365 Days of the Presidency: An Onboarding Seminar.” The program is designed for new CEOs and the college’s board chair. Register now to join us for this program in Washington, DC, February 15–16.
Be Honored at the Hail & Farewell Luncheon
The Hail & Farewell Luncheon is AACC’s opportunity to wish a fond farewell to retiring CEOs, as well as hail new and 25-year CEOs. If you fit into one of these categories, submit a form by March 5 so AACC can recognize you. The Hail & Farewell program will take place at AACC’s convention.
It’s not too soon to make your plans to attend the 2018 Presidents Academy Summer Institute (PASI). It will be held July 21–24 in Dana Point, California. PASI is an annual professional development program for presidents and CEOs of member community colleges, providing intensive focus on current challenges, emerging trends, and opportunities unique to that position.
Highlights
On January 16, I met with staff from the Australian Embassy to discuss the work that they are doing with apprenticeships. Pictured (L to R): Wayne Wheeler (AACC), Michael Tracey (Embassy of Australia), Jen Worth (AACC), Anthony Murfett (Embassy of Australia), Steve Balzary (Business Group Australia).
See more of Where’s Walter.