Tag: Dr. Jon Bauer

Group of Phi Theta Kappa inductees holding candles and roses during an induction ceremony at Rolla 31 School District, part of East Central College's Rolla campus events.

Rolla Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Welcomes 22 New Members

November 5, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

The Beta Omicron Phi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society at East Central College in Rolla proudly inducted 22 new members this fall.

Lulu McGowan, PTK Heartland Region President, serving as the keynote speaker, stands at a wooden podium with pink hair, addressing an audience. She wears a black, square-necked top and appears focused on delivering her speech. The background includes framed artwork and a Missouri state flag.

Lulu McGowan, PTK Heartland Region President, served as the keynote speaker at the Fall New Member Induction Ceremony held on Oct. 20. Attendees included the 2024-25 PTK Beta Omicron Phi Chapter President Mae May, Rolla PTK advisor Dr. Elizabeth Winters-Rozema, and ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer.

Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for two-year colleges, where members engage in activities reflecting the organization’s hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship. To qualify for induction, students must achieve a GPA of at least 3.4 for one semester and maintain a 3.2 GPA thereafter. PTK membership is open to students across all majors, degrees, and certificates.

Students who are eligible but have not yet joined still have the opportunity to do so through the end of the year. For more information about PTK in Rolla, contact Dr. Winters-Rozema at 573-466-4084 or elizabeth.rozema@eastcentral.edu.

The inductees who attended the ceremony were Victoria Parks, Victoria Owens, Carter Hayesk, Nichole Turner, Felicity Taylor, Tabitha Brown, Ciara Lunsford, Shylah Ragan, and Haley Breen.

Inductees not at the event include Hannah O’Connor, Angela Barnes, Viridiana Balbontin, Jonah Bartle, Dylan Brown, Ashton Chambers, Ariana Hoevel, Madison Kossuth, Cynthia McCormick, Harper Rollins, Sofai Tilei, Noah Valkenaar, and Aleksa Vanbladel.

Pictured, are two ECC administrators and an instructor who is holding a 25-years of service award.

ECC Celebrates Commitment with Annual Service Awards Banquet

October 18, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Each year, East Central College proudly recognizes the dedication and hard work of its employees for their commitment to student success and service to the community.

The Annual Service Awards banquet celebrates those who have reached milestone years of service—5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years—with ECC. This October, there were 22 employees honored for their years of service to the college.

Service Award Recipients:

25 Years: Linda Barro

Three ECC employees holding certificates for 20 years of service, — Pictured are the recipients of the 20 Years of Service Awards, from left: Sarah Scroggins, Shaun Roberson, and Erin Anglin.

20 Years: Erin Anglin, Grace Austin, Brook Burgess, Shaun Roberson, and Sarah Scroggins.

Pictured are the recipients of the 15 Years of Service Awards, from left: Stacy Langan and Dr. Reginald Brigham.

15 Years: Dr. Reginald Brigham, Stacy Langan, and Dr. Timothy Sexton.

Four ECC employees holding certificates for 10 years of service, — Pictured are the recipients of the 10 Years of Service Awards, from left: Kerry Blocker, Bethany Herron, Joel Doepker and Dee Gibbs.

10 Years: Kerry Blocker, Patty Crumpecker, Joel Doepker, Dee Gibbs, and Matthew Gifford, Bethany Herron, Lavonda Lawson, and Gregory Stotler.

Seven ECC employees holding certificates for 5 years of service, — Pictured are the recipients of the 5 Years of Service Awards, front row, from left: Lauran Spier, Jessica Horn, Bridgette Kelch and Stephanie McCarthy. Back row, from left: Hannah Jolley. Bobby Bland and Joannie Blakely.

5 Years: Joannie Blakely, Bobby Bland, Jessica Horn, Hannah Jolley, Bridgette Kelch, Stephanie McCarthy, Vu Ong, and Lauran Spier.

ECC President to Chair National Advocacy Group for Rural Colleges

October 6, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College President Dr. Jon Bauer was elected Chair of the Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA) Board of Directors.

RCCA is a national organization with members in 35 states, led by a board of community college presidents and other leaders in the field. It is the only organization devoted to rural-serving community colleges. Additionally, RCCA lobbies in state legislatures and Washington, D.C., as a voice for institutions often neglected in higher education.

Bauer was elected by the full RCCA Board during the 2024 RCCA annual conference, held Sept. 18-20 at SUNY-Adirondack Community College in Queensbury, New York.

“I am honored to be named Chair of the RCCA Board of Directors. Rural community colleges are essential to the success and growth of our regions, and I look forward to collaborating with fellow board members to champion the unique needs and opportunities in rural education,” he said. “Together, we can continue to expand access, promote innovation, and strengthen the impact of community colleges across the country.”

The Board Chair serves a two-year term. Seth Carter, president of Colby Community College in Kansas, is the outgoing Chair.

The RCCA assists member institutions that serve the 89.3 million people who live in rural America. Bauer has served on the national board since September 2020.

The Alliance promotes a more economically, culturally, and civically vibrant rural America through advocacy, convening, and leveraging resources. The RCCA also serves as a “clearinghouse for innovative practice, policy, and research.”

The RCCA strives for increased state support and federal impact aid for community and tribal colleges and helps member institutions find new funding sources. ECC will serve as the host for next year’s conference, taking place Sept. 17-19, 2025.

ECC Renews Metallica Scholars Partnership

August 13, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College renewed its partnership with Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation (AWMH), which has already helped 80 students pursue a degree or certificate in advanced manufacturing programs.

ECC is beginning its third year as a Metallica Scholars college. The College has awarded more than $120,000 in scholarships to students in high-demand fields. ECC is the only college in Missouri that is part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative.

“We are thrilled to continue our journey with the Metallica Scholars Initiative for a third year. This initiative has been instrumental in delivering exceptional educational opportunities that lead to rewarding careers. Over the first two years, we have provided scholarships to 80 students, empowering them to succeed and thrive in high-demand fields,” said ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer.

Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), MSI began with 10 colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. With steady development by creative and dedicated leadership, MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers.

Additional curricula will include construction, health care, and engineering, contributing to more than 25 fields of study offered within the Initiative. To date, AWMH has invested over $10.5M in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level.

At ECC, scholarships are available to students in Welding, Industrial Maintenance and Robotics, HVAC, Applied Technology, and Precision Machining. Metallica Scholarship applications for the fall semester are due Aug. 15.

To find the scholarship application, read testimonies from scholarship recipients, and learn about the Season Kickoff Music Festival, visit the Metallica Scholars Initiative page.

Growing Initiative

James “Papa Het” Hetfield, Metallica’s lead vocalist and guitarist, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative’s growth: “When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me.”

“A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills. Trade skills are vital to society, and what’s even more important is to support the many folks who are trying to create a career by learning and using these skills. I am so proud – we all are – to see how this program is changing lives by providing much-needed resources to empower students, and it’s great that we’re able to make our biggest grant yet to support these students and the future workforce. We are reaching even further for year six of the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This year, our program will be in 60 schools in all 50 states! All thanks to your support.”

“I am happy to congratulate the newest Metallica Scholarship Initiative colleges. The sustained investment in workforce education by the All Within My Hands Foundation has benefitted thousands of community college students,” said Walter G. Bumphus, president, and CEO of AACC. “This work helps to advance skills education and the nation’s workforce pipeline. We are honored to continue this partnership to provide critical resources that eliminate barriers for students to participate in skills education programs that lead to family-sustaining wage careers.”

By the end of year six, MSI estimates that it will have helped more than 8,000 students with a wide range of backgrounds and ages gain skills to assist in finding meaningful jobs and careers. Metallica Scholars are often considered non-traditional students, as many have families they support or are the first in their families to pursue a college education. AWMH and AACC aim to connect students to skill-building opportunities and bridge the talent needs of the American workforce, all while utilizing the community college system, which is the most affordable, flexible, and industry-relevant applied-learning training provider in the country.

“Metallica, through their foundation, is changing how people view and engage with the trades in this country, and it is working,” stated Peter Delgrosso, executive director of All Within My Hands. “Metallica Scholars are diverse, motivated, and ambitious, and we are here to help them reach their goals. I am so proud and honored to be able to announce entrance into all 50 states as this is a significant milestone for not only our foundation but the incredible community we have helped foster and connect.”

For a complete list of all 60 colleges currently supported by AWMH, visit allwithinmyhands.org/metallica-scholars.

About All Within My Hands

All Within My Hands (AWMH) is a non-profit, philanthropic organization created by Metallica and dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. Since its inception, AWMH has raised over $15 million, providing significant grants to career and technical education programs, combatting food insecurity, and aiding disaster relief efforts.

About AACC

The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) is the voice of the nation’s community colleges, delivering educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students. AACC advocates for community colleges to ensure they have the resources needed to increase economic mobility for all.

Group photo of inaugural class of the East Central College Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center

ECC Phelps LETC Graduates Inaugural Class of Eight New Officers

July 30, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Eight students have graduated from the inaugural class of East Central College’s Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC) and have already joined local law enforcement agencies.

A ceremony was held on July 26 to recognize this milestone, marking the culmination of three years of preparation to address the regional need for local officer training.

Certificate of Achievement in Law Enforcement graduate from ECC

The graduates, certified by the Department of Public Safety’s Peace Officer Standards and Training Program (POST) and having passed the Missouri Peace Officer License Exam, received badges from their hiring agencies during the ceremony. The graduates and their respective agencies are:

Aesa Al-Jurany, Rolla — Crawford County Sheriff’s Department
Luke Carnahan, Crocker — Waynesville Police Department
Michael Davis, Rolla — Phelps County Sheriff’s Department
James Henson, Rolla — Rolla Police Department
Alexander Krakuszeski, Rolla — Rolla Police Department
Hunter Solomon, Waynseville — Phelps County Sheriff’s Department
Stanley Taylor, Jr., Licking — Phelps County Sheriff’s Department
Jay Yelton, Rolla — Phelps County Sheriff’s Department

Since August 2023, the graduates have worked toward a Certificate of Achievement in Law Enforcement from ECC and have the option to complete additional general education requirements to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Law Enforcement.

ECC Rolla Director and LETC Director, Christina Ayres, applauded the graduates.

“I commend you for the dedication and perseverance you have shown to your educational journey. We’ve seen your grit, resilience, hope, and gratitude,” she said. “My wish for each of you is that you wear your well-earned badge with honor and commitment to the department and communities that you serve.”

Meeting Our Mission

ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer emphasized the LETC as a prime example of the college’s mission to meet community needs.

Dr.Bauer speaking at podium — ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer

“The LETC at ECC is the perfect illustration of that mission. Law enforcement officials came to the College with a critical need — there were no good options for individuals to train for a career in law enforcement in this region,” he said.

“Their question was at once simple and profound: Could East Central College help? Consistent with our mission to serve our communities and our strategic priority of expanding in Rolla, the answer was an easy and enthusiastic, Yes!”

The LETC was established through the efforts of Phelps County Sheriff Michael Kirn, Rolla Police Maj. William Loughridge, and Ayres.

Since August 2021, they have worked to address barriers for employers and future officers by reducing travel and lodging costs and decreasing lengthy commutes, allowing students to attend training while maintaining their current responsibilities.

The program also ensures that quality candidates familiar with the community are trained locally, fostering greater interest and retention. LETC students benefit from federal financial aid, scholarships, and support services, and the program exceeds state requirements by offering more training hours.

Student Awards

LETC graduate Alexander Krakuszeski received the 2023-2024 Outstanding Law Enforcement Student Award for his professionalism, positive attitude, work ethic, and teamwork.

A faculty member noted, “Throughout the entire academy training, he consistently stepped up into a mentor role, he encouraged teamwork from all recruits, and whenever he noticed someone struggling with PT or one of the other core classes or assignments, he always stepped up. He showed true professionalism, he led by example, he offered encouragement, support, and he demonstrated to his classmates how to be more successful.”

Additionally, Krakuszeski was presented with the Marksmanship Excellence Award and Academic Excellence Award. Luke Carnahan received the Physical Fitness Excellence Award, and Hunter Solomon and Stanley Taylor, Jr. were recognized for perfect attendance.

For more information about the program, visit our Law Enforcement program page, or contact LETC@eastcentral.edu or 573-202-6960.

Abigail Kleekamp Earns First WINGS ECC Scholarship

July 24, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College graduate Abigail Kleekamp is the recipient of the inaugural WINGS (Washington’s Investment in Great Schools) Educational Foundation ECC Scholarship.

Kleekamp, from Washington, graduated Summa Cum Laude from ECC in May with an Associate of Arts degree and was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. This fall, she will attend St. Louis University to study Criminology and Pre-Law. Plans call for the $1,000 Scholarship to be offered annually.

Kleekamp was an Early College Academy student, attending classes at both ECC and Washington High School for the past two years. She holds cherished memories of her time with the WHS Band.

“I have so many great and amazing memories from my time in band, from winning competitions to making lasting longtime friends from this experience,” she said. “Being able to perform at football games was always fun as it got the student section and cheerleaders involved as well, which gave a positive atmosphere for the football season.”

During the ECC Class of 2024 Commencement, Dr. Jon Bauer, college president, highlighted Kleekamp’s achievements as an ECA student—graduating from both high school and college and actively participating in both communities.

“When Dr. Bauer mentioned me in his speech, I was very shocked because I had no idea that it was coming,” she commented. “I got very emotional because I thought it wasn’t a big deal, the accomplishments that I had just completed, but now I know that my accomplishments were a big deal if Dr. Bauer himself thought that they were.”

Memorable Faculty

Kleekamp noted that she enjoyed every class taught by Matthew Gifford, philosophy and religion instructor at ECC.

“I had taken all three of the classes that he teaches in Union during this past fall and spring semesters, and I did not regret it,” she added. “He made teaching fun and enjoyable, and I looked forward to his classes each week because of all the funny things that he says.”

Kleekamp said she learned a lot from Gifford about the subject matter of each class and life lessons she’ll carry with her.

“Getting the students involved in the lesson allows them to remember the topic of discussion better, and that is what Matthew Gifford did for me, and he will continue to do it for his other students.”

WMS Instructor

Kleekamp also made lasting memories in her 7th-grade history class, taught by Ben Hornback.

“He made class fun for his students — we went outside to make a spray-painted map of the world that included all of the major history moments that we had talked about,” she remembered. “Mr. Hornback was a very approachable teacher, and he would always help me with anything that I was struggling with.”

The WINGS Educational Foundation ECC Scholarship will be awarded to a student who attended school in the Washington School District and graduated from ECC. Applications, submitted anonymously, are reviewed by the College president, who makes the final selection.

To learn more about the ECC Foundation and scholarship opportunities, visit www.eastcentral.edu/foundation/new-scholarships-endowments/.

Student Mary Romine posing with Dr. Bauer during graduation

Mary Romine Receives President’s Spirit of ECC Award

May 16, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Although East Central College Nursing program graduate Mary Romine received her diploma for Associate of Applied Science in Nursing on May 11, she has already been pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) for five months.

Romine, from Rolla, who attends classes at ECC in Rolla, is described as a leader among her peers and someone who consistently exceeds expectations in every aspect as a student. Additionally, she excels academically and demonstrates leadership within the Student Nurse Organization.

During ECC’s Commencement Ceremony, Romine was recognized for those qualities, and more, with the President’s Spirit of East Central College Award.

ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer presented the award to Romine, noting that she was graduating that day cum laude, and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Bauer added that Romine is active and holds leadership positions in multiple student organizations while maintaining an outstanding 3.58 GPA in nursing school.

“Her commitment to giving back to the community is evident through her volunteer work with school-aged children, where she shares her passion for the nursing profession,” he said.

In addition to the President’s Spirit award, Romine received the Phelps Health Spirit of Excellence in Nursing award during the Nursing program pinning ceremony earlier that day.

“I was utterly shocked to have received these awards…” she said. “When we took our seats at the commencement ceremony, I saw a section of the program that was all about me! I was so honored to have received both awards, and I was emotional because all my hard work paid off.”

“I live by being kind to each individual I meet and trying my hardest at everything I do,” Romine added. “Spreading this positivity and devotion aids in developing trust with others. To be appreciated and recognized meant the world to me, and I appreciate everyone involved in nominating and choosing me for these awards.”

Healthcare Field

Romine is already working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Phelps Health in Rolla, and she will work as a full-time registered nurse now that she’s graduated. She plans to graduate with a BSN in May 2025. Meanwhile, she will study for the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) exam.

Her next step will be to apply for the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) three-year program at MSU.

“If everything goes according to plan, I expect to graduate with my doctorate in 2029,” Romine said. “My end goal is to be a DNAP at Phelps Health Hospital. I love the Rolla community and want to build my dream home and family here in my hometown.”

“I want to thank everyone in my support system, including my family, fiancé, mentors, instructors, friends, the Rolla community, and the One Life ministry,” she added. “None of this would be possible without God, my number one supporter, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'”

Sandy Lucy Named ECC Outstanding Alumni

May 15, 2024 | Campus News

Sandy Lucy of Washington was honored with the 2024 Outstanding East Central College Alumni award during the College’s 54th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 11. Lucy, a member of the Class of 1976, was celebrated for her pioneering contributions to her community.

Notably, she made history as the first female mayor of the City of Washington, serving in this role for 12 years.

Prior to that, she broke barriers as the first woman elected as chairperson of the Washington Chamber of Commerce. These achievements, along with her numerous other exceptional contributions to local politics and community service, led to her selection for the prestigious East Central College Foundation award.

Presented by ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer, the Outstanding Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed upon an ECC alum by the East Central College Foundation. It recognizes individuals who have brought honor to the College through their professional accomplishments, leadership, and community impact.

Drawing upon her experience as a transformative leader, Lucy delivered a message of empowerment to graduates, emphasizing the importance of being present in shaping the future.

“The world belongs to those who show up,” she said. “As life goes on, you will have many opportunities to get involved and participate — be someone people can count on.”

About Sandy Lucy

A graduate of St. Francis Borgia Regional High School, Lucy embarked on her educational journey at ECC, where she earned an associate degree in general studies before obtaining a degree in speech pathology and audiology from the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg.

Lucy’s commitment to serving others has been evident throughout her career. Following her academic pursuits, she worked as a speech and language pathologist in rural schools in Lincoln and Pike counties, positively impacting the lives of countless students.

Mayor Lucy

During her tenure as Mayor of Washington from 2010 to 2022, Lucy made significant strides in economic development and transportation growth, including overseeing milestones such as the opening of the new Missouri River Bridge.

Lucy’s leadership, characterized by respect, integrity, and a focus on community well-being, has earned her widespread admiration. Her dedication to ECC extends beyond her time in office, as she has served on the Foundation Board since 2005 and actively contributes to the ECC Alumni Association.

“It’s rare that our elected leaders are held in high esteem by the majority of their constituents,” her nomination read. Sandy Beste Lucy is one of those rare leaders.”

“She is a woman of exceptional character who shows everyone respect and leads with an eye focused on the big picture.”

In addition to her involvement with ECC, Lucy’s philanthropic endeavors include establishing an endowed scholarship in 2021 and serving on various community committees, including those for tourism, historic preservation, and the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce.

Managing the Gary Lucy Gallery, which she co-owns with her husband, Lucy is also engaged in organizations such as St. Francis Borgia Parish, Washington Rotary Club, and the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board.

Lucy’s impact on her community and alma mater is immeasurable, making her a truly deserving recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award.”

Past Recipients

2023 – Ina “Cookie” Hays – Union – Higher Education
2022 – Tim Unnerstall – Washington – Business Management
2021 – Eric Park – Washington – Financial Planning
2020 – Scott Breckenkamp – Washington – Banking
2019 – Dorothy Schowe – New Haven – Public Relations
2018 – Ron Unnerstall – Washington – Engineer
2017 – Audrey Freitag – New Haven – Nurse
2016 – Dave Arand – Union – Attorney
2015 – Anthony “Tony” Kreutz – Union – Business Admin
2014 – Amy Wildhaber – Beaufort – ER Dept Manager
2013 – Joseph Purschke – Union – Attorney at Law
2012 – Linda Mahon – Union – History/Educator
2011 – Ted Coburn – Villa Ridge – Probation & Parole
2010 – Ann Schroeder – Union – Political Science
2009 – Chris Stuckenschneider – Washington – Journalism
2008 – Ken Schmidt – Union – Engineering
2007 – Tammy Watz – Sullivan – Allied Health
2007 – Dr. Frank Miller – Washington – Allied Health
2006 – Deborah Koelling – Washington – Education

ECC Employees Recognized with NISOD Excellence Awards

May 1, 2024 | Campus News

Three East Central College employees are being recognized for their dedication to students, the College and their coworkers with 2024 NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development) Excellence Awards.

The ECC award recipients are Dr. Parvadha Acosta, Associate Professor, Biology; Chad Baldwin, Director of Online Learning & Educational Technology; and Megan Elbert, Executive Administrative Assistant, VP of Student Development.

NISOD is a professional development provider that offers programs and resources for community and technical colleges. Member colleges can recognize employees through the Excellence Awards, which are presented to faculty and staff who are doing extraordinary work on their campuses.

Award recipients receive a unique silver medallion engraved with The University of Texas and NISOD insignias and adorned with a burnt orange ribbon. NISOD is based out of the University of Texas in Austin.

Each recipient was nominated for this award by a colleague and selected by the administrative team after the nominations were reviewed.

“On behalf of the entire institution, I offer my heartfelt thanks to each of these individuals for the service they provide daily to ECC students and to their colleagues,” said ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer. “Job well done and recognition well deserved.”

Below are comments about each recipient from their nominations.

Dr. Parvadha Acosta

“Dr. Acosta has grown in her role as faculty, becoming one of ECC’s strongest student advocates,” her nomination reads.

“She is an active supporter of faculty professional development and took on a leadership role in ECC’s faculty professional development’s first ever Chew On This watch party and discussion. Her commitment to the community shows in her leadership of ECC’s Earth Day and United Way.”

Chad Baldwin

“Chad is the backbone of our online learning world,” his nominator wrote. “He’s the wizard who makes sure online classes run like a well-oiled machine.

“Chad is not just a tech genius; he’s a game-changer for ECC and the man who keeps us on track and makes our online learning experience top-notch!”

Megan Elbert

“Megan does the big things and little things to make people feel supported and welcomed. She many times is a go to person for support as she is extremely good at making individuals feel heard and seen,” Megan’s nomination states.

“Staff turn to her when they need advice or guidance. She has served on many key college committees and roles such as the insurance committee, the compensation committee, multiple board policy review teams, and served as a strategic planning tri-chair just to name a few. Megan provides service for our students both behind the scenes and on the front lines.”

ECC joins Achieving the Dream Network to Advance Student Success

April 16, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College has joined Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national leading higher education reform network of more than 300 community colleges across the country.

As one of eight institutions joining the organization as part of its 2024 cohort, ECC will enter ATD’s Foundations of Transformation core engagement, an intensive three-year program. College leaders will collaborate with ATD’s expert coaches to develop essential capacities for student success. These capacities will focus on data analysis, teaching and learning, leadership, community partnerships, student support, and more.

“Joining the Achieving the Dream marks a pivotal moment for ECC’s commitment to student success. We aim to provide students with strengthened individualized attention they deserve,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, ECC President.

“Additionally, ECC’s partnership with Achieving the Dream will empower us to address the unique challenges faced by our low-income and rural student populations; ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.”

ECC, along with fellow cohort colleges and six other institutions new to the ATD Network, will convene at ATD’s Kickoff Institute, an annual event to welcome incoming Network colleges, which will be held this year from June 12-14 in New Orleans.

During the Kickoff Institute, colleges will establish partnerships with ATD and become acquainted with the organization’s Institutional Capacity Framework. This framework offers a comprehensive assessment designed to cultivate a student-centered culture and enhance student success.

ECC secured the funding to join ATD through a federal Title III grant, awarded through the Strengthening Institutions Program administered by the U.S. Department of Education.

ATD is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges across the country. Drawing on expert coaches, groundbreaking programs, and national peer network, the organization provides institutions with integrated, tailored support for every aspect of their work — from foundational capacities such as leadership and data to intentional strategies for supporting students holistically, building K–12 partnerships, and more.

ATD calls this Whole College Transformation. Its vision is for every college to be a catalyst for economically vibrant communities. ATD knows that with the right partner and the right approach, colleges can drive access, completion rates, and employment outcomes — so that all students can access life-changing learning that propels them into community-changing careers. To learn more, visit the Achieving the Dream website: www.achievingthedream.org.