January 22, 2021 | Issue # 179
Across the country we witnessed the inauguration of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. this week. Leading up to the inauguration, AACC participated in several conversations with leaders of the transition team for the Biden Administration, where we clearly articulated the priorities of our members. In addition, we have engaged with the offices of the new leadership for congressional committees that preside over matters that have the most impact for our institutions. As a non-partisan association, rest assured that we will continue to represent the nation’s 2-year colleges at the table with the new administration. We are optimistic that we will effectively advance the policies and priorities that make a difference for you.
Also this week, members of my Executive Leadership Team joined me as I kicked off the AACC Virtual Listening Tour. These sessions have provided us with an honest, unvarnished dialogue with community college CEOs about the challenges that your institutions are facing, and the opportunities that are emerging. This week, we conducted two of the 21 meetings currently scheduled. We anticipate holding one or two makeup meetings for any CEOs that miss the meeting that we have planned for your state. Your participation in the Virtual Listening Tour ensures that we hear from you about the things that we should consider as we advocate on your behalf, and to identify more ways that we can support your institutions and the goal of student success.
I would be remiss if I didn’t also acknowledge the fact that we are still in a pandemic. To that end, please continue to be safe, practice social distancing, and wear your mask as a way for us to protect each other from the potential spread of the virus.
“ED Releases ‘CARES 2.0’ Funds”
The U.S. Department of Education last Thursday announced the availability of new stimulus dollars provided through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) to help both institutions and students. Learn more in this CC Daily article.
“Increased Student Engagement Despite Pandemic”
Engagement is up at Mount Wachusett Community College due to strategic steps enacted at the start of the pandemic. Read about it in the AACC 21st Century Center blog.
The AACC Workforce Development Institute (WDI) will take place virtually January 27-28. This year’s sessions will tackle how colleges are adjusting through adversity. View the schedule online and register here.
Register for AACC Live and AACC Digital
Registration is open for both AACC Live and AACC Digital. AACC Live will be held in Nashville, Tennessee, April 11-14. AACC Digital will take place virtually each Thursday in May.
Nominations Due Today for Awards of Excellence
AACC is accepting nominations for the Awards of Excellence in six categories: Advancing Diversity, Community College Safety Planning and Leadership, Exemplary CEO/Board, Faculty Innovation, Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership, and Student Success. Nominations are due today, January 22, no later than 5:00 p.m. (ET).