Community College Month 2025 Highlights

We are thrilled to present 2025 #CCMonth highlights from around the country, including federal and state leaders, member institutions and other friends of ACCT. If your #CCMonth efforts aren't listed here, fill out this form and let us know what we need to add!

Proclamations

Community College Month from federal and state leaders demonstrate an appreciation for and commitment to the importance and value of community and technical colleges.

In 2025, Community College Month proclamations were signed by:

Notable College Activities

Below are summaries of institutional #CCMonth activities sourced from Google News and summarized by ChatGPT.

To submit an update about your college, or to update or correct any listed information, please submit this form.

Alabama Community College System (Alabama)

The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) actively participated in Community College Month 2025, emphasizing its pivotal role in education and workforce development across the state:

Official Proclamation: Governor Kay Ivey, alongside the ACCS Board of Trustees, officially declared April as Community College Month in Alabama, recognizing the significant contributions of community colleges to the state's economic growth and educational opportunities.
Economic Impact: ACCS highlighted that its 24 public community and technical colleges serve over 140,000 individuals annually. These institutions generate more than $8.1 billion for Alabama's economy each year, supporting 1 out of every 26 jobs in the state.
Student Success Stories: The system showcased testimonials from students like Kayley Peebles of Lurleen B. Wallace Community College, who praised the esthetics program for enhancing her skincare knowledge and providing valuable internship experience. Similarly, Kendall Galloway, a graduate of Bevill State Community College, credited career and technical education with transforming her life and emphasized the opportunities community colleges offer for skill development and career advancement.

Black Hawk College (Illinois)

Black Hawk College celebrated with a series of events:

Open houses at various campuses, including a specialized Equine Open House.
Free musical performances and student art exhibitions.
Athletic events featuring the college's Braves teams in sports like golf, baseball, soccer, softball, and volleyball.

City Colleges of Chicago – Illinois

In alignment with Governor JB Pritzker's proclamation of April 2025 as Illinois Community College Month, City Colleges of Chicago celebrated by showcasing the vital role community colleges play in shaping students' futures and strengthening communities. The colleges encouraged the public to learn more about their programs and shared stories under hashtags like #4everystudent4everycommunity and #CCMonth to promote awareness and engagement.

Cleveland State Community College (Tennessee)

Cleveland State Community College (CSCC) actively participated in Community College Month 2025, emphasizing its commitment to accessible, high-quality education and community engagement:

#CCMonth Campaign: Throughout April, CSCC joined the national #CCMonth initiative, a grassroots education and stigma-busting campaign coordinated by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). The campaign aimed to improve awareness of the economic, academic, and equity advantages of attending a community college.
Alumni Faculty and Staff Recognition: CSCC celebrated Community College Month by highlighting faculty and staff members who are also alumni of the college. A group photograph was taken to showcase these individuals, emphasizing the college's role in fostering lifelong connections and professional growth within the community.

Clinton Community College (Iowa)

Clinton Community College (CCC), part of Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC), marked Community College Month 2025 with significant investments in education and sustainability:

DeWitt Career Advancement Center: CCC celebrated the impact of its 26,000-square-foot DeWitt Career Advancement Center, which offers programs in agriculture, CNC machining, construction technology, healthcare, information technology, and small business management. The center provides high school students with opportunities to earn college credits through Career Academies.
Bickelhaupt Arboretum Renovation: The college hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on May 1, 2025, for the transformation of the Bickelhaupt Arboretum into a premier education and event center. The project includes the addition of a permeable parking lot, bioretention cell, and native landscaping to enhance water quality and provide expanded educational offerings.

Community College of Beaver County (Pennsylvania)

In April 2025, the Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) actively participated in Community College Month, aligning with the national #CCMonth campaign to highlight the benefits of community colleges:

#CCMonth Campaign: CCBC joined the national #CCMonth initiative, a campaign coordinated by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), to raise awareness about the academic, economic, and employment advantages of attending community colleges. The campaign emphasized community colleges' role in serving community needs and removing obstacles for individuals facing disadvantages.
"Best Decision Ever" Theme: Embracing the 2025 theme "Best Decision Ever," CCBC encouraged students and alumni to share their personal stories on social media, illustrating how attending a community college positively impacted their lives.

Cowley College (Kansas)

Cowley College actively participated in Community College Month 2025 with a series of initiatives aimed at highlighting the value and impact of community colleges:

#CCMonth Campaign: Throughout April, Cowley College encouraged students, alumni, and community members to share their experiences and success stories using the hashtags #CCMonth and #BestDecisionEver. This social media initiative aimed to raise awareness about the benefits of community colleges and to challenge misconceptions about two-year institutions.
Promotion of Affordable Education: The college emphasized the financial advantages of starting higher education at a community college. According to Cowley College, Kansas students can save nearly $20,000 by beginning their education at a community college before transferring to a university.
Partnerships with Local Businesses: Cowley College highlighted its collaborations with local businesses to equip students with in-demand skills, thereby reducing student debt and fostering economic growth within the community.

CUNY Celebrates National Community College Month

The City University of New York (CUNY) hosted over 20 events throughout April, including campus tours, information sessions, and open houses. Additionally, CUNY celebrated 33 of its community college students being named semifinalists for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, recognizing their academic excellence and potential.

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) – Iowa

EICC celebrated Community College Month by offering free classes throughout April 2025. These classes covered various topics, providing community members an opportunity to explore new interests or career paths. Additionally, EICC hosted "The Journey Back: A Virtual Reality Experience" from April 21 to May 2 at Muscatine Community College's Loper Hall, allowing participants to engage with immersive educational content.

Guam Community College (Mangilao, GU)

Guam Community College observed Community College Month by highlighting the institution's role in providing accessible education and workforce development opportunities.

Howard Community College (Maryland)

Howard Community College organized:

April 30: Spring Fling event featuring various student activities.
Freshman Dragons Enrollment Night to assist incoming students with enrollment processes.

Houston Community College (Texas)

Houston Community College (HCC) actively participated in Community College Month 2025, emphasizing its commitment to accessible, high-quality education and community engagement:

#CCMonth Campaign: HCC joined the national #CCMonth initiative, a grassroots education and stigma-busting campaign coordinated by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). The campaign aimed to improve awareness of the economic, academic, and equity advantages of attending a community college.
Economic Mobility Emphasis: HCC Chancellor Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher highlighted that students who begin their education at a community college save an average of $35,000 to $50,000 toward a bachelor's degree, underscoring the institution's role in promoting economic mobility.
Centers of Excellence: HCC operates 14 Centers of Excellence and additional satellite locations throughout the Greater Houston area, offering programs in fields such as nursing, cybersecurity, business, and the arts. These centers equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a global and tech-driven world.

Jackson College (Michigan)

Jackson College actively participated in Community College Month 2025, emphasizing its commitment to accessible, high-quality education and community engagement:

#CCMonth Campaign: Throughout April, Jackson College invited students, alumni, supporters, business partners, and community members to participate in the 2025 Community College Month (#CCMonth) campaign. The initiative aimed to highlight the college’s vital role and significant contributions to the local community.
Presidential Statement: President Daniel J. Phelan emphasized the importance of community colleges as "local engines that open doors to higher education for all," noting that students who begin their higher-education careers at community colleges can save tens of thousands of dollars on the cost of a bachelor's degree.
Community Engagement: The college highlighted its unique partnerships with local businesses designed to provide valuable workplace credentials, demonstrating how it is cultivating skills for the future.

Kalamazoo Valley Community College (Michigan)

Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC) celebrated Community College Month 2025 by highlighting its pivotal role in providing accessible, high-quality education and contributing to the local economy:

Community College Month Recognition: KVCC joined nearly 1,000 community colleges nationwide in celebrating Community College Month, emphasizing the institution's commitment to serving as a first-choice destination for college-bound students in Kalamazoo County.
Educational Impact: President L. Marshall Washington, Ph.D., underscored the college's role in preparing students for in-demand careers in healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and new media, as well as facilitating transfers to four-year institutions.
Economic Contribution: KVCC highlighted its significant impact on the vitality of Southwest Michigan, noting that the credentials earned by its students directly support the region's workforce needs.
Program Offerings: Established in 1966, KVCC offers certificate programs in over 50 areas of study and associate degrees in 60 others, including business, healthcare, human and public service, technical occupations, culinary arts, and brewing training.

Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS)

KCTCS organized several events to commemorate Community College Month:

April 4: Launch of the "Going Pro" initiative, focusing on professional development.
April 14–18: Dual Credit Week, highlighting opportunities for high school students to earn college credits.
April 16: Giving Day, encouraging community support and donations to the college system.

Kirkwood Community College – Washington County Regional Center (Iowa)

Kirkwood Community College's Washington County Regional Center celebrated Community College Month 2025 by highlighting its commitment to accessible education and workforce development:

Community College Month Recognition: The center actively participated in the national #CCMonth campaign, emphasizing the value of community colleges in providing affordable and high-quality education.
Career Academies for High School Students: The center offered industry-focused Career Academies, allowing high school students to earn college credit at no cost. These programs provided hands-on experience in various fields, preparing students for both higher education and immediate entry into the workforce.
Continuing Education and Community Programs: In April, the center hosted a variety of continuing education classes and community programs, including welding courses, digital photography, home improvement workshops, and youth camps. These offerings aimed to engage community members of all ages in lifelong learning opportunities.

Lewis and Clark Community College (Illinois)

On April 29, Lewis and Clark Community College hosted its annual Springfest, offering:

Live music performances.
Food options like walking tacos and funnel cakes.
Entertainment including inflatables, a photo booth, and a balloon artist.

Northern Illinois University (Illinois)

In April 2025, Northern Illinois University (NIU) celebrated Community College Month by reaffirming its commitment to empowering community college students through accessible, high-quality educational pathways:

Transfer-Friendly Initiatives: NIU strengthened its partnerships with 32 community colleges, facilitating multiple routes for students to earn baccalaureate degrees and gain workforce-ready skills.
Increased Transfer Enrollment: The university experienced a more than 10% increase in new transfer student enrollment in Fall 2024 compared to the previous year, with 1,462 students joining from other colleges.
Place-Based Learning Opportunities: NIU expanded location-based programs at Elgin Community College, Rock Valley College, the University Center at Harper College, the University Center of Lake County, and the University Center at McHenry County College. These programs allow students to take NIU courses closer to home, balancing education with personal and professional commitments.
Credit for Prior Learning: The university acknowledged students' professional experiences by providing college credit through its credit for prior learning policy, creating more efficient pathways to degree completion.
Chicago Roadmap Initiative: NIU finalized a partnership with City Colleges of Chicago and Chicago Public Schools, enabling students to complete an associate in applied science degree and transfer to NIU to complete their baccalaureate degree.

North Carolina Community College System (North Carolina)

In April 2025, the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) actively engaged in Community College Month by advocating for legislative support to enhance workforce development and educational access:

Propel NC Funding Initiative: NCCCS requested nearly $100 million to implement Propel NC, a new funding model aimed at aligning educational programs with high-demand, high-wage jobs. The model proposes shifting from the current full-time equivalent (FTE) funding tiers to "workforce sectors," with courses ranked based on statewide salary and job demand data every three years.
Senate Budget Allocation: The North Carolina Senate's 2025-27 budget proposal included approximately $73 million over the biennium to support the Propel NC initiative. This allocation focuses on reorganizing workforce sector tiers to better meet the state's economic and operational needs.
Additional Legislative Efforts: Over 50 bills impacting community colleges and postsecondary education were filed during the 2025 legislative session. Notable among these were House Bill 490 (Propel NC Funding and Tuition Surcharge) and House Bill 365 (Workforce Education Act), both supporting the Propel NC funding model.

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)

NOVA's Alexandria Campus held multiple events:

April 29: Self-Advocacy Student Workshop and a Spring Tri-Concert showcasing student musical talents.
April 30: Information sessions with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, along with a virtual session on NOVA Workforce certifications.

Rappahannock Community College (RCC) – Virginia

RCC joined the nationwide observance of Community College Month by highlighting its role in providing affordable, high-quality education and workforce training. The college shared success stories of students and alumni, emphasizing the impact of community colleges on individual lives and local communities. RCC also invited prospective students and community members to explore its campuses and learn about available educational and career opportunities.

Santa Fe Community College (New Mexico)

Santa Fe Community College celebrated Community College Month 2025 with a Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Open House on April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Trades and Advanced Technology Center.

The event featured:

Greenhouse Tours: Visitors explored the college's 12,000-square-foot greenhouse, a living laboratory for students managing aquaponic and hydroponic systems.
Culinary Samples: From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., attendees enjoyed bite-sized treats prepared by Culinary Arts students using produce grown in the greenhouse.
Plant and Book Sale: A variety of herb and vegetable seedlings were available for purchase, along with a used book sale. Proceeds benefited the SFCC Aquaponics and Hydroponics Club.

This event highlighted SFCC's commitment to sustainable agriculture and community engagement.

SUNY Adirondack (New York)

In April 2025, SUNY Adirondack celebrated Community College Month by sharing impactful stories that highlight the transformative power of community college education:

Student Success Story: In an op-ed titled "The Best Decision Ever," published in the Adirondack Almanack, alumna Jerilea Zempel recounted her journey from poverty to prosperity through her education at SUNY Adirondack. She emphasized how the college's supportive environment and dedicated faculty played a crucial role in her academic and professional achievements.
Community Engagement: By showcasing Jerilea's story, SUNY Adirondack aimed to inspire current and prospective students, demonstrating the college's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering personal growth.

Treasure Valley Community College (Oregon)

Treasure Valley Community College (TVCC) celebrated Community College Month 2025 by highlighting the transformative impact of community colleges through personal success stories:

Student Success Story: TVCC alumna and nursing graduate, Karla, shared her journey from poverty to prosperity. She emphasized how the college's supportive environment and dedicated faculty played a crucial role in her academic and professional achievements.
Community Engagement: By showcasing Karla's story, TVCC aimed to inspire current and prospective students, demonstrating the college's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering personal growth.

Triton College (Illinois)

Triton College actively participated in Community College Month 2025, aligning with the national #CCMonth campaign to highlight the benefits of community colleges:

#CCMonth Campaign: Triton College joined the national #CCMonth initiative, a campaign coordinated by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), to raise awareness about the academic, economic, and employment advantages of attending community colleges. The campaign emphasized community colleges' role in serving community needs and removing obstacles for individuals facing disadvantages.
"Best Decision Ever" Theme: Embracing the 2025 theme "Best Decision Ever," Triton College encouraged students and alumni to share their personal stories on social media, illustrating how attending a community college positively impacted their lives.

Wallace State Community College (Alabama)

Wallace State Community College actively participated in Community College Month 2025 with a series of events and initiatives aimed at highlighting the value and impact of community colleges:

#CCMonth Campaign: Throughout April, Wallace State encouraged students, alumni, and community members to share their experiences and success stories using the hashtag #CCMonth. This social media initiative aimed to raise awareness about the benefits of community colleges and to challenge misconceptions about two-year institutions.
Aspen Prize Finalist Recognition: Wallace State was named a finalist for the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, recognizing the college's commitment to high-quality education and student success.
Community Events: The college hosted various events throughout April, including a Fine and Performing Arts Solo Recital, a production of "Little Women The Musical," and a Spring Fling event, to engage students and the community in celebrating the achievements of community colleges.

Wor-Wic Community College (Maryland)

Wor-Wic Community College celebrated Community College Month 2025 by highlighting its significant impact on the local economy and providing accessible education opportunities:

Economic Impact Study: A recent study conducted by Lightcast revealed that Wor-Wic contributes approximately $148.9 million annually to the local economy, supporting 2,076 jobs. Graduates earn, on average, $7,200 more per year compared to individuals with only a high school diploma.
Leadership Perspectives: President Dr. Deb Casey emphasized the college's role in laying the foundation for students to pursue higher-paying jobs. Dr. Deirdra Johnson, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Community Engagement, highlighted the college's ability to provide students with opportunities to explore different majors without the need to relocate or incur significant educational expenses.
50th Anniversary Celebrations: As part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, Wor-Wic hosted events featuring renowned writers, including a virtual reading by internationally acclaimed author Ariel Dorfman on April 10 and a poetry reading by U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón on April 23.