Community college graduation numbers way up

During the 2010-2011 academic year, Mississippi’s 15 community colleges have awarded 13,228 degrees during graduation ceremonies.  This is an increase of 14.2%, or 1,873 students, compared to 2009-2010.  The figure for the current academic year does not include graduations that may take place during the first term of summer school, by June 30.  The increase in students graduating from community colleges comes at a time of record enrollments.  In the past three years, enrollment has increased by 31%.

“Our community colleges are playing an integral role in helping to better Mississippi,” said Dr. Eric Clark Executive Director of the State Board for Community and Junior Colleges.  “A stronger effort to encourage students to stay at community colleges to complete their degrees, along with dramatic increases in enrollment during the recent recession, have lead to the increased graduation figure.  These students will be able to transfer to a university and earn a bachelor’s degree or they may choose to enter the workforce.  Regardless of the direction they take, these citizens will have a better life because of their time at our community colleges.”

Community College Number of Graduates during 2010-2011 (as of  5/26/11)

Coahoma Community College, 325: Copiah-Lincoln Community College, 749; East Central Community College, 444; East Mississippi Community College, 752; Hinds Community College, 1,803; Holmes Community College, 785; Itawamba Community College, 1,300; Jones County Junior College, 930; Meridian Community College, 782; Mississippi Delta Community College, 465; Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, 2,109; Northeast Mississippi Community College, 518; Northwest Mississippi Community College, 907; Pearl River Community College, 879; Southwest Mississippi Community College, 480

TOTAL 13,228