Erie County Community College (EC3) leaders have announced the launch of the Erie County Community College Foundation aimed at generating consistent and sustainable funding for resources and support to enhance opportunities and experiences for students.
The announcement comes on the heels of a packed house at the EC3 commencement of the Class of 2024 on June 1, where 83 students received diplomas as part of the second graduating class from the first community college to be established in Pennsylvania in nearly three decades, and the newest in the nation.
The move will allow EC3 to strengthen the reach and scope of community college offerings in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The establishment of a foundation is warranted given that degrees granted tripled in just two years since EC3 began accepting students for tuition-free education.
Strong voices from across the political spectrum have expressed support for assuring the college meets the needs of current and future students. At the June 1 Commencement, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy DeFoor underscored the importance of continued community support for EC3.
"When people told you that this city is too small or it will be too hard to start a new school, you fought for one anyway, because Erie doesn't do 'can't," said Dr. Jill Biden.
DeFoor shared how his experience attending community college was essential to overcoming adversity and building a successful career that has culminated in him becoming the first person of color to win an election to a statewide executive office in Pennsylvania.
"The Foundation will work to provide the resources for EC3 to assure our students have the support, tools and technology available to fully benefit from their community college experience, and to maximize philanthropic support for the mission of the college" said Ron DiNicola, the Chair of the Foundation. "Taking this important step will help ensure that the community college will benefit students, their families and the entire community for generations to come."
Along with Ron DiNicola, the foundation includes esteemed community members such as Erin Kerner, Karen Thomas, and Board of Trustees Liaison, Dr. Michael T. Victor. The EC3 staff member directly involved with the Foundation is Carolyn Dunn, appointed Director of Advancement at EC3 in late fall last year.
"This marks a tremendous moment in the history of the college," says Dr. Chris Gray, founding president of Erie County Community College. "Providing this level of support for our students allows us to live out another piece of our mission. This is a wonderful opportunity for those who believe in what we are doing to support us in continuing to make college affordable and accessible."
News
June 25th, 2024
