A clear path forward often begins at Moraine Valley Community College, where students come to build skills, explore options and take the next step toward their goals.
That sense of opportunity is at the heart of Community College Month, celebrated each April by colleges across the country. The campaign, led by the Association of Community College Trustees, highlights how community colleges create accessible, affordable pathways for millions of students.
At Moraine Valley, the message centers on meeting students where they are and helping them move forward, said Dr. Pamela J. Haney.
“We echo this year’s Community College Month theme, wholeheartedly agreeing that community colleges are the smartest first step and the strongest next step for millions of learners,” Haney said. “Community college provides pathways for students preparing to transfer, seeking a career-ready credential or building new skills through short-term training.”
Each student’s journey looks different. Some arrive with plans to transfer to a four-year university. Others focus on gaining job-ready skills or learning new ones to change careers. Moraine Valley is designed to support all of those paths.
“Students graduate from Moraine Valley with in-demand job skills, and they leave with a well-rounded background that supports both their professional goals and personal growth,” Haney said. “In fact, 99% of our graduates recommend Moraine Valley.”
The college’s Board of Trustees reinforced that impact by unanimously approving a resolution at its March 19 meeting recognizing National Community College Month and the more than 1,200 community colleges across the country that expand access to higher education.
State leaders are also taking notice. JB Pritzker has proposed expanding access to four-year degrees at community colleges, pointing to the barriers that can keep traditional universities out of reach.
“We have some really terrific four-year institutions that are a vital part of the higher education system in Illinois, but we need to recognize that there are geographic, financial and accessibility constraints that close off too many students from attending those schools,” Pritzker said in a statement. “With lower tuition rates and a greater presence across the state, especially in rural areas, community colleges provide the flexibility and affordability for students to pursue a quality education that works for them.”
Community members can attend the college’s Open House on Saturday, April 11, 9 a.m. to noon, in Building M at 9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills.