June 30, 2023 | Issue # 239
Earlier today, AACC sent a statement to all members about this week’s Supreme Court decisions on Affirmative Action and Student Loan Forgiveness. In case you missed it, here is what I had to say:
“In light of the recent Supreme Court decisions on Affirmative Action and student loan forgiveness, we must remain steadfast in pursuit of equity for all community college students including the removal of barriers to completion and success. I urge all of you to intentionally and strategically break down the practices and programs that make up those barriers and fully recognize how internal and external factors prevent students from attending and succeeding in higher education. Community colleges are the last bastion of access to higher education for all Americans regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status. We must fiercely protect it so that future students are able to freely pursue the American dream.”
In other news, I’ve been appointed to the Homeland Security Academic Partnership Council. The council is tasked with providing strategic and actionable recommendations to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas on campus safety and security, improved coordination, research priorities, hiring, and more. I’m honored to be counted among these higher education leaders and am eager to begin this work.
I wish you a safe and relaxing 4th of July.
“Prime Opportunities for Ag Students”
Agriculture programs at community colleges are vital to the regions they serve. And as technology evolves, so do these programs. Learn more in this CC Daily article.
“Democracy Lab: Community Workshops Bridge the Divide”
The Democracy Lab at Carroll Community College is a non-partisan community workshop initiative aimed at fostering the community’s commitment to American democratic ideals. Read about it in the AACC 21st Century Center blog.
AACC Comments on Gainful Employment Regulatory Package
Last week, AACC submitted comments on the May 21 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding financial value transparency and gainful employment, financial responsibility, certification procedures, administrative capability, and ability to benefit. You can read the comments here and get the breakdown in this CC Daily article.
Update Your College’s Key Contact Information
AACC is in the process of preparing information for the 2023-2024 Community College Directory, which will be sent to all AACC member colleges in the fall. To ensure the information published about your college is correct, please update your college’s directory and key contact information using this form by Thursday, July 6. If you have questions or need additional assistance, please email us at membership@aacc.nche.edu.
Send Your Staff to Roueche-FLI/FPI in Denver
The next John E. Roueche Future Leaders Institute and Future Presidents Institute will take place in Denver, Colorado, September 10-12. These institutes are aimed at emerging and current leaders. Consider sending someone from your college! Registration is now open