News Summary
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) is evolving under the guidance of its fifth president, Michael A. Baston. His Vision 2030 Strategic Transformation Plan aims to enhance educational accessibility and community engagement. By fostering partnerships with local employers and addressing barriers faced by students, Tri-C seeks to align its programs with workforce needs, ensuring relevance in an ever-changing job market. New initiatives also support increased enrollment and financial assistance for students, reinforcing the college’s commitment to their success.
Cleveland, Ohio – Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) is embarking on a new chapter under the leadership of its fifth president, Michael A. Baston, J.D., Ed.D. Since taking office in July 2022, Baston has initiated significant efforts to enhance educational accessibility and community engagement through the Vision 2030 Strategic Transformation Plan, slated for implementation in 2025.
The Vision 2030 plan aims to guide Tri-C through the remainder of the decade by providing a comprehensive roadmap for adapting education delivery to better suit the evolving needs of both students and employers. Tri-C currently serves around 35,000 credit and noncredit students across four campuses and various locations within Cleveland.
In his role, Baston has identified a crucial goal of establishing deeper relationships with local employers to further position Tri-C as a relevant higher education resource in Northeast Ohio by 2026. He acknowledges the necessity of aligning educational offerings with the demands of the local workforce, particularly in light of the growing gig economy and the quest for short-term employment pathways.
Focus on Community Impact and Access
A key component of the Vision 2030 plan is to amplify the college’s impact on the community through partnerships with local businesses. Baston believes that by leveraging ideas and relationships, higher education institutions can influence workforce development and economic growth.
To facilitate the success of diverse student demographics, including traditional and non-traditional learners, Tri-C is continuously working to reduce barriers to education. The college addresses several critical issues such as transportation, food insecurity, and childcare, making it easier for students to pursue their educational goals.
Enrollment Growth and Student Support Initiatives
Tri-C has recently reported an increase in freshman enrollment, with 2,770 freshmen registered in the fall, marking a 3.6% rise from the previous year. Additionally, the full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment has grown by 5% for the academic year, supported by strong summer enrollment figures. The college utilizes a continuous enrollment model that provides multiple start dates throughout the year, further enhancing accessibility.
To alleviate financial burdens faced by students, Tri-C has launched the Resilient Scholar Fund, made possible by a $1 million donation aimed at covering unexpected expenses that may impede educational progress. This initiative aligns with Baston’s commitment to helping students navigate financial pressures while pursuing their education.
Addressing Future Educational Needs
Baston has emerged as a national thought leader on community colleges’ roles in achieving educational success, workforce optimization, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion reforms. As he guides Tri-C through transformative changes, Baston emphasizes the importance of adapting to the shifting demands of the workforce in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
With a strategic focus on economic development, Baston’s leadership is poised to ensure that local talent is retained and that the skills gap within major industries is closed. His commitment to fostering important conversations regarding the future of higher education and collaborative efforts underscores the college’s mission to nurture a skilled workforce while providing high-quality, affordable education.
Looking Ahead
As Vision 2030 takes shape, the collective efforts of Tri-C and its leadership promise to enhance educational accessibility and community engagement for the residents of Northeast Ohio. The initiatives launched by Baston not only bolster the college’s role in the local economy but also serve to equip students with the tools necessary for success in an increasingly dynamic job market.
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s Cleveland: Lakeland, Lorain see gains; Tri-C fall numbers dip
- Wikipedia: Cuyahoga Community College
- Cleveland.com: Ohio school ranked among nation’s most affordable colleges
- Google Search: Cuyahoga Community College
- Crain’s Cleveland: Lakeland Community College begins rebound after crisis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community College
- Cleveland.com: Here’s why Tri-C students can still get transit passes
- Google News: Tri-C student transit passes
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