Community College Journal - April/May 2019

Education has historically been an area for bipartisanship and we will make every effort to continue that tradition. We intend to hold several hearings over the next several months to explore the challenges facing higher education, and then use those findings to produce a comprehensive bill that is grounded in evidence and research. The American people are counting on Congress to address the serious challenges in our higher education system and to correct the inequities that have prevented many students from reaching their full potential.

CCJ: How do you see community colleges
contributing to the American workforce?

Rep. Scott: Community colleges ensure that all
students have access to multiple affordable,
high-quality higher education pathways regard-
less of family income. Specifically, community
colleges play this vital role by providing students
affordable tuition rates, an educational opportu-
nity in close proximity to home.

Community colleges also serve more than 40 percent of all undergraduate students, including 36 percent of students who are the first in their families to go to college. Moreover, in 2018, they served a large proportion of historically underrepresented students—including 56 percent of Native American undergraduates, 52 percent of Hispanic undergraduates, and 43 percent of Black undergraduates.

Q& A

“Through legislation, hearings and oversight, we will advance our
vision of a country where everyone can succeed.”

REP. BOBBY SCOT T, chair, House Committee on Education and Labor

The National Council for Marketing & Public Relations is the leading professional development organization for two-year college communicators. Each year, NCMPR recognizes a select group of community and technical college presidents for outstanding leadership in marketing and public relations. Congratulations to this year’s national and district Pacesetters!