Gene Bilodeau: CNCC benefits Moffat County residents
To the editor:
I have been asked by several people to comment on referendums C and D and especially how the result might affect Colorado Northwestern Community College.
Specifically, I have been asked about the possible closure of CNCC. Sen. Jack Taylor, Rep. Al White and several others have indicated that should C fail, it would not bode well for higher education.
There have been reports suggesting that rural community colleges may be forced to close. There are numerous implications of deep cuts to education if measures C and D fail. I would like to present to the people of Moffat County what CNCC has done for our community and let you decide the value of CNCC through your vote Nov. 1.
Since fall 1999, we have seen 334 of your family members and friends receive a certificate of completion or a college degree through CNCC-Craig. In this same time frame, 159 community members have used college services to prepare for and pass their GED.
This semester, approximately 116 juniors and seniors at Moffat County High School students are taking dual enrollment classes for which they will receive both high school and college credit. These courses will transfer to colleges and universities throughout Colorado and the United States. Dual enrollment classes challenge dedicated students, carve time off of college degrees and have saved thousands of dollars in college expenses. Last year, three Moffat County High School students graduated from high school and attained associate’s degrees concurrently.
Several community members have taken classes to advance in their positions, change careers and learn job skills.
Many have experienced the benefits of lifelong learning. Having a college in a community is attractive for relocating businesses and families. Having such an environment serves to make Moffat County a vibrant and desirable place to live.
I encourage you to look at the benefits afforded to residents of Moffat County through the efforts of CNCC as you cast your vote in this important election.
Gene Bilodeau
Registrar and dean of student services, Craig-Campus
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