October 4, 2019 | Issue # 147
I was in Dallas this week for Google CEO Sundar Pichai’s announcement that Google will expand its IT certificate program from 25 to 100 community colleges. More and more companies are committing to train and retrain students and workers for in-demand, good-paying jobs—and community colleges continue to play a vital role in these workforce development initiatives. Strengthening relationships with industry partners is a win-win: it’s good for our students and our economy. I salute you for the great work that you continue to do to close the skills gap.
“AI Calls for Big Changes in Workforce Training”
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the nature of work and the workforce, requiring community and technical colleges to restructure programs to meet employers’ demand for new skill sets. Read about it in CC Daily.
“Giving Start-Ups a Good Start”
Austin Community College’s newest incubator will help new businesses grow and give students new learning opportunities. Learn more at the AACC 21st Century Center.
The Call for Proposals for the 100th AACC Annual Convention is now open. The 2020 convention agenda will include traditional and interactive sessions. More than 250 sessions will be organized into four mini-conventions. Faculty, mid-managers, senior administrators, and CEOs will all have their own space to engage with and learn from their peers. Proposals must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. (ET) on October 29. Proposals may only be submitted by AACC members.
Submit Nominations for the Awards of Excellence
Be proud of the great work happening at your college. Submit a nomination for the AACC Awards of Excellence. Nominations are being accepted in the following categories: Advancing Diversity, Community College Safety Planning and Leadership, Exemplary CEO/Board Relationship, Faculty Innovation, Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership, and Student Success. Deadline for submissions: October 25, 5:00 p.m. (ET).
At the request of AACC Board Chair Alex Johnson, I was pleased to speak to Cuyahoga Community College trustees during the Tri-C board’s annual retreat.
On September 26, I attended the Center for Community College Student Engagement (CCCSE) board meeting. Pictured with me (L to R): incoming CCCSE Executive Director Linda Garcia, AACC board member Joe Schaffer, and current CCCSE Executive Director Evelyn Waiwaiole.
On October 3, I was in Dallas for a roundtable with Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Ivanka Trump to discuss community colleges and their role in workforce development. We were hosted by Dallas County Community College District Chancellor Joe May. I was honored to represent our sector.
Today, I hosted the 5th AACC Unfinished Business Meeting with new and seasoned community college CEOs and administrators to get input on our equity initiative. (DC)