The On-Ramp to Higher Education
Dear Editor:
Each year, the members of the Virginia General Assembly convene in Richmond, Va., to begin the important task of ensuring that the Commonwealth of Virginia continues down a path of economic growth, while providing citizens with important social services.
One important social service that strengthens the economy is education. According to a recent economic development study, the average annual increase in income for Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) associate degree graduates was between $7,000 and $8,000. This translates into more tax revenue and more disposable income spent on services and products, thus boosting the economy. The economic impact of individuals obtaining bachelor’s degrees would be even higher.
Unfortunately, many LFCC graduates are unable to pursue a bachelor’s degree due to financial constraints. Almost 30 percent of LFCC students are over the age of 25. Many of these students are financially responsible for supporting a family, thus making it more difficult for them to pay for tuition. However, there may be hope for these students if the Virginia General Assembly passes House Bill 1681 and Senate Bill 749.
Introduced by Sen. Walter Stosch and Delegate Vincent Callahan, the Community College Transfer Grant Program will benefit students who may not pursue a bachelor’s degree due to the increased tuition rates at four-year institutions. If the legislation passes, the program would provide community college students who graduate with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. The community college transfer grant would be made available to approximately 1,754 students and would average approximately $2,147 per eligible student per year. It will go a long way to bridge the gap between community college tuition and fees and the tuition and fees charged by four-year institutions.
I applaud Sen. Stosch and Delegate Callahan for proposing such a revolutionary plan that will benefit the citizens of the Commonwealth and, in turn, strengthen the economy of the state. In addition, I want to thank the many legislators who have added their support to this program, including Delegate Clifford L. “Clay” Athey Jr. , an LFCC alumnus, and the following legislators who represent LFCC’s service region:
LFCC is excited about the future and the impact that the Community College Transfer Grant Program would have on current and future students. Witnessing a laid-off manufacturing worker march across the stage to receive a diploma is exciting. However, knowing that that same student can take his newfound knowledge, enthusiasm for learning and confidence to the next level and obtain a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree is thrilling.
John J. “Ski” Sygielski
President
Lord Fairfax Community College