PENDLETON, Ore.-April is National Community College Month, a time to highlight the schools, students, programs and economic impact of community colleges.
The goal of community college month is to increase awareness and understanding of the value of community colleges, both locally and nationally through grassroots, localized outreach, according to the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), a nonprofit organization representing over a thousand community, technical and junior colleges in the United States.
The role that Oregon’s 17 community colleges play in providing affordable, accessible, and high-quality education to students across the state will be highlighted throughout April by the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA).
Over 200,000 students are served by community colleges each year in Oregon with programs that align with local industry needs, support economic mobility and prepare students for employment or university transfer, according to OCCA.
Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) in Pendleton sees enrollment of about 3,620 students per term across its Pendleton campus, branches throughout Eastern Oregon and online or hybrid platforms, with a total enrollment of 10,864 students during the Fall 2023 to Spring 2024 term.
“Community colleges like BMCC play a vital role in rural communities – we meet students where they are and help them build the future they want,” said Jordan Monasco, Director of College Relations at BMCC.
BMCC offers over 40 degree or certificate programs including, Applied Technology, Healthcare and Emergency Services, Agriculture, Diesel, Welding, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems, with curriculum tailored to meet the needs of today’s economy, according to the college.
“Whether someone’s looking to step into the workforce, transfer on, or gain new skills, we’re here to support that success story every step of the way,” said Monaco.
According to an economic impact study commissioned by OCCA in 2023, community colleges in Oregon had a total economic impact of $9.6 billion in fiscal year 2021-2022.
“Oregon’s community colleges are the backbone of our state’s workforce and economy,” said Abby Lee, OCCA Executive Director. “They provide high-quality education and career training that is both affordable and accessible, ensuring that all Oregonians – regardless of background or situation – have the opportunity to succeed.”
BMCC’s main campus is in Pendleton, OR, however, the college has satellite branches or centers in Hermiston, Boardman, Milton-Freewater and Baker City, as well as options for online or hybrid learning, to ensure that the most students can access its programs.
BMCC will be celebrating Community College Month by highlighting students, program features and behind-the-scenes stories across its social media channels throughout April.
“Oregon’s community colleges are the key to a skilled workforce, economic development, and lifelong learning opportunities for all,” said Austin Folnagy, OCCA Board President.
More information about enrollment and degree or certificate programs at BMCC is available online.
