Community College Awareness Month takes on new meaning as Chattanooga State Community College celebrates its 50th anniversary during 2015.
Officials said, "Tens of thousands of students have called Chattanooga State their community college since it opened in 1965. Like then, students of all ages and backgrounds today are getting a first-rate, affordable education. As technology advances, skills attained help students get a good-paying job, transition to a four-year university, and advance their current careers."
Under the leadership Governor Bill Haslam, Tennessee became the first state to offer free tuition to graduating high school seniors through its groundbreaking Tennessee Promise program. Tennessee Reconnect, a free tuition programs for the adult population quickly followed. Many students in the Chattanooga State service area already have declared their intention to attend ChattState and as a result the college is expecting one of the largest enrollment increases on record this fall.
“Community colleges offer pathways to economic success – and hope for the future – to lower-income students, first-generation college-goers, minority students, veterans, single parents, and anyone looking to advance their skills,” said AACC President Walter Bumphus. “Community colleges continue to be a gateway to a better life for many and provide access to higher education for all Americans regardless of their background or socio-economic status. Coupled with their economic benefit within the local and regional economies, there is no doubt that community colleges provide the best investment in the country.”
As the end of the 2014-2015 academic year approaches, Chattanooga State already has prepared a number of celebrations commemorating its 50th year. These celebrations will include students, alumni, faculty, and staff, as well as retirees.