February 22, 2019 | Issue # 132
A couple of weeks ago, I informed you about an exciting new partnership between AACC and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to train 16,000 apprentices over the next 3 years. Since the initial announcement, our staffs have worked together to develop the Request for Applications (RFA) for the Expanding Community College Apprenticeships (ECCA) initiative. The RFA outlines the criteria for community colleges interested in applying to participate in the ECCA. Interested colleges must have a proven track record of success in delivering registered apprenticeships, have strong industry engagement, and have a sound project plan to increase completion rates in their registered apprenticeship programs above the baseline completion rate for the program as it currently stands.
Also, in the coming days, I plan to announce the selection of members to the Task Force on Community College Apprenticeships, which will support the ECCA efforts. I encourage you to join us at the 99th Annual Convention on Sunday, April 14, for a Super Spotlight session to learn more about innovative apprenticeship programs offered at community colleges and by one ECCA industry partner.
Complementing our great partnership with DOL, I am honored to have been appointed by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross to serve on the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board (AWPAB) to represent the nation’s 1,103 community colleges. I am pleased to join this esteemed group of leaders in sharing our collective knowledge to identify strategies and new ways that we can be proactive in addressing the needs of the 21st-century worker. Please continue to check my CEO to CEO Newsletter for updates on ECCA and the work of the AWPAB.
A growing number of students earning two- and four-year degrees already have a prior credential, whether a certificate, associate degree or baccalaureate, according to a new National Student Clearinghouse Research Center study. Read about it in CC Daily.
“Creating a Cyber-Secure Campus”
Data breaches can be costly, so executives need to work together and get staff up to speed. Learn more in this Community College Journal article.
AACC Awards of Excellence Finalists
Congratulations to the finalists for the AACC Awards of Excellence. Find out who they are here. The winners of each category will be announced at the AACC annual convention.
AACC Convention Housing Information
The housing block is filling up fast, so don’t be left out. Our housing bureau is currently accepting reservations for 3-night minimum stays. Individuals that register for a full base registration will receive a confirmation email, which includes an icon with a bell that reads, “book housing.” Click on the “book housing” link to make your lodging request. Beginning March 1, the housing block will be opened to allow individuals registered as “speaker only” to book lodging, which will limit the available inventory for full registrants. To modify lodging, please reach out to our ConferenceDirect (CD) between Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. (ET) by calling (833) 210-8603 or by emailing AACC@conferencedirect.com. CD is the only authorized housing bureau representing AACC.
Vote by Feb. 28 in AACC Board of Directors Election
Your vote is important! AACC board members represent you at the national level so please take a few moments to vote today. Voting closes February 28. If you did not receive your ballot or you experience any problems with your ballot, please contact Angel M. Royal.
Be Recognized at the Hail & Farewell Luncheon
The Hail & Farewell Luncheon is the association’s opportunity to wish a fond farewell to retiring CEOs as well as hail new and 25-year CEOs. Held during AACC’s annual convention luncheon program, Hail & Farewell is a celebration of leadership. AACC is now accepting applications for Hail & Farewell recognition until March 22, 2019, at 5:00 p.m. (ET).
Register for the AACC Annual Convention
The AACC convention is just around the corner. Join us in Orlando, Florida, April 13–16. This year’s event boasts new session formats, including the soapbox, silent disco talks, and the 30-minute session, all featuring relevant topics, including pathways, apprenticeships, access and equity, and more. Register now.
See more of Where’s Walter.