WCC Annual Report 2022-23

ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE TOGETHER. ANNUAL

FROM THE CHAIR

The Board of Trustees for Washtenaw Community College understands its important responsibility to steward the college’s mission to make a positive difference in people’s lives through accessible and excellent educational programs and services.

As trustees, we are extremely proud to continue keeping WCC’s tuition among the lowest in the state for our students who rely on the college at every stage of their life.

Whether you are a high school student entering college for the first time, an adult learner seeking to advance your education to secure a better job or career path, a student with a degree who wants to expand your credentials, or a lifelong learner pursuing professional or personal interests, WCC is here to help you achieve your goals.

WCC’s 2022-23 Annual Report highlights many of the outstanding activities and initiatives recently accomplished to fulfill the needs and expectations of the diverse community the college serves.

Our Board is fortunate to be a part of supporting initiatives that create opportunity for our students and enrich the lives of our community members no matter what their goals may be.

Each success helps lead to a brighter, more secure future for all of us.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for your support of WCC!

Angela Davis Chair, Board of Trustees

Each year I am humbled to work beside our exceptional faculty and staff at Washtenaw Community College who are so committed to our students. I continue to be inspired by all that we have accomplished together.

The stories inside WCC’s 2022-23 Annual Report highlight many exciting initiatives and innovations of the past year. WCC continues to be a leader, recognized for excellence in its educational programming, locally, regionally and nationally.

We are continually developing new education and training programs to support the evolving world of automotive technology, mobility, business, healthcare, and information technology and cybersecurity. We are preparing our students to fill high-skill, in-demand jobs that contribute to our local and regional economy. Such programs would not be possible without our strong industry partners who guide us in developing academic programs to prepare students to fill their job openings.

We continue to help more students afford college and achieve their dreams through transfer programs such as the HBCU Pathway, while engaging students of all ages in STEM/STEAM programming, the liberal arts and more.

We hope you enjoy reading about the many ways the college is delivering on our promise to serve our students and our community. No matter where you are in your career or life’s journey, I hope that you will take advantage of all your community college has to offer.

With gratitude,

Rose B. Bellanca, Ed.D. President

FROM THE PRESIDENT

CLASS OF 2023

Kudos to Class of ‘23

More than 2,300 students completed a Washtenaw Community College associate degree or certificate program during the 2022-23 academic year. While the pursuits of community college students are varied –preparing to transfer to a four-year university, starting a new career path, or advancing in their current employment – the WCC Class of 2023 celebrated together during the college’s annual Commencement ceremony, with more than 500 graduates crossing the stage to receive their credential to the applause of a full house at the EMU Gervin Game Above Center.

2,330 Unique Graduates

1,517 Associate Degrees Earned

1,594 Certificates Earned

33% Minority Graduates

61% Graduates who Received Financial Aid

56% Women Graduates

29 Average Age of Graduates

OF THE GRADUATES WHO EARNED AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE:

406 Graduated with High Honors (3.8 or higher GPA)

373

Graduated with Honors (3.5 to 3.8 GPA)

SUPPORT FOUNDATIONal

HELPING STUDENTS FINISH THEIR EDUCATION

While Washtenaw Community College offers one of the lowest higher education tuition rates in the country, some students still depend on federal, state and other external scholarships and grants to make their academic dreams a reality.

When those opportunities aren’t available – or aren’t enough – the WCC Foundation steps in to help students get across the finish line. In the 2022-23 academic year alone, the WCC Foundation granted more than $1.3 million in scholarships to over 1,800 students.

An additional $43,000 from the Student Emergency Fund supported students who faced a financial crisis that threatened their ability to stay in school. Data indicates that 81% of WCC student recipients of emergency funds remain in school or graduate. In addition to the need-based WCC Foundation scholarships, the college awards several full-tuition honors scholarships. The President’s Scholarship, the Procassini Scholarship and the Excellence Scholarship are available to multiple students from every public high school in Washtenaw County annually.

The college also awards full-tuition scholarships for students enrolled in each academic division. In all, during the 2022-23 academic year, students received $730,045 directly from the college.

The State of Michigan significantly increased its support of higher education in recent years, with more than $3.7 million in scholarships awarded to WCC students last year.

Federal sources of assistance are also plentiful in the form of grants and loans, which totaled $28.2 million last year to WCC students. Of that, more than $15 million was awarded in grants and work study salary, which do not need to be repaid.

$2.38 M SAVINGS FOR STUDENTS ON 2022-23 TEXTBOOK COSTS DUE TO OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES REVENUE BY SOURCE

Keynote speaker Aisha Bowe (second from left) and honorees (from left) Donna Doleman Dickerson, Michelle Crumm and Nancy Margolis at the WCC Foundation’s Women’s Council Luncheon.

FINANCIAL AID

$34,930,676 Total Financial Aid

6,363 Students Received Some Type of Financial Aid

$5,520,125 $144,969 Work-Study $15,014,525

Scholarships

‘I WILL FINALLY ACHIEVE MY DREAM’

Financial assistance can mean the difference between pursuing a dream or watching it slip away. At this year’s WCC Foundation Scholarship Luncheon, nursing student Michael Lehman explained how a scholarship changed his life.

Lehman explained that he made a promise to his late wife that he would follow her into the nursing profession. Having already overcome enormous obstacles in his life, the next one was figuring out how he could return to school full-time while working full-time to pay tuition and other expenses.

He applied for and was awarded a WCC Foundation scholarship funded by a $1 million donation from Ann

Arbor philanthropists Stephen and Agnes Reading. The Reading Scholars program financially supports 10 WCC nursing students pursuing an associate degree at WCC who intend to transfer to Eastern Michigan University to complete a Bachelor’s of Nursing Science.

“Words cannot express the emotions and the shock of this amazing news,” Lehman wrote in a thank you letter to the Readings. “Thanks to you, I will finally achieve my dream. And I will surely be paying it forward every step of the way throughout my career.”

$1.3M SCHOLARSHIPS GRANTED TO OVER 1,800 STUDENTS IN 2022-23.

paving the road of the ev ecosystem

$2.5 M to wcc for the new ev charging station programs

NOTEWORTHY

WCC CONTINUES ITS ROLE IN CCAT

WCC will continue to partner in University of Michigan-led regional efforts aimed at transitioning the nation to connected and automated vehicles — bolstered by a new $15 million, five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). The grant renews and expands the Center for Connected and Automated Transportation (CCAT), based in Ann Arbor.

The partnership now brings together nine colleges and universities to focus on significantly advancing the U.S. transportation system with emerging technologies that address safety and sustainability. WCC is the only community college among the partner institutions.

five year grant from U.S. department of transportation.

$15 m

new training programs charge the ev workforce

In an ambitious stride toward fostering a sustainable and innovative future, Washtenaw Community College has announced the launch of pioneering electric vehicle and semiconductor technician programs aimed at equipping students with the necessary expertise to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry.

With a commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce for the burgeoning electric vehicle sector, the college has emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of automotive education and training. Within the coming year, the college will launch three certificate programs:

• Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installation

• Maintenance & EV Battery Technician

• Semiconductor Technician Training

Amid a global shift towards sustainable transportation solutions, the introduction of these EV programs signifies the college’s proactive approach to addressing the pressing need for a specialized workforce. By offering a diverse curriculum, the college is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the automotive workforce of tomorrow.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE PROGRAMS

Congress approved $2.5 million to WCC for the new EV charging station maintenance and EV battery technician programs. It is anticipated the charging station installation and maintenance program will begin next spring, and the

battery technician program will launch in the Fall of 2024.

The college will soon begin building a new battery lab and EV charging station

WCC was the only community college exhibiting at the 2023 North American International Auto Show. It also participated in an EV Jobs Academy event, Energizing a Sustainable EV & Mobility Workforce Ecosystem.

SEMICONDUCTOR PROGRAM

WCC was on hand when the state of Michigan announced its largest-ever

startup ecosystem,” as well as the fastest growing clean energy sector in the country. As part of the Michigan Semiconductor Talent and Automotive Research (STAR) initiative, WCC is launching a semiconductor technician training program to advance the electrification of the automotive industry.

The program will train workers to support the manufacturing of electronic semiconductor chips, meeting a critical need for these new high-demand jobs and filling a valuable part of the ecosystem talent pipeline.

“One of the most important jobs we have as a community college is to listen to industry partners to understand talent needs and then customize programs to quickly train the current and future workforce,” Bellanca said. “We stand ready to provide the training and education required to deepen our state’s talent pool with well-qualified technicians to support chip production.”

installation and maintenance training space for students in its Occupational Education Building. “With the rapidly advancing EV industry, WCC plays an important role in educating and training students for these new and emerging jobs,” said WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “Our students, as well as the industry, rely on us to prepare a highly successful workforce for this evolving space.”

Long a leader among its peers in training students for mobility jobs of the future,

campaign to promote careers, recruit talent and attract new businesses to fill jobs in Michigan’s burgeoning semiconductor industry. Dr. Bellanca and other higher education leaders, business executives and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), discussed specific roles of their organizations to advance the semiconductor industry within the state.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II called Michigan the epicenter for mobility innovation and home of “the No. 1 emerging

WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca signs the Michigan Semiconductor Talent and Automotive Research (STAR) initiative memorandum of understanding as Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin and Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO Quentin Messer look on.

Faculty and staff representing WCC at this year’s Auto Show were (from left), Workforce Development staff Alison Peterson, Yuji Fujii, WCC faculty members Mike Galea, Edward Szurek, Justin Morningstar, WCC Interim Vice President of Instruction & Chief Workforce & Community Development Officer Brandon Tucker, WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca and Advanced Transportation Center director Al Lecz.

Students Study Abroad ACCESsIBLE,

After a pandemic-induced hiatus, WCC once again offered its students a study abroad opportunity in the spring of 2023 with an interdisciplinary history and archaeology adventure to Italy. Following two weeks of classroom instruction in both subject matters, a threeweek travel itinerary included stops at historical sites and museums in Rome, Naples and Viterbo before experiencing hands-on participation at an active archaeological excavation in Ischia di Castro.

Inaugural Washtenaw HBCU Day A Huge Success

The energy was high and the learning substantial when Washtenaw Community College welcomed nearly 400 high school and college students from throughout the region to the first-ever Washtenaw HBCU Day.

The purpose of the event, sponsored by Washtenaw County, was to introduce students to WCC’s HBCU Pathway, a robust program that offers transfer agreements with five different Historically Black Colleges & Universities. However, to properly pitch the idea of attending an HBCU, the WCC Office of Diversity & Inclusion brought the HBCU experience to Towsley Auditorium.

An HBCU-style marching band had students dancing in their seats before a Divine Nine fraternity/sorority stroll off brought them to their feet and into the aisles of the auditorium.

There were also tours of the WCC campus and academic programs, and panel discussions with representatives of HBCU partners Alabama State University, Tuskegee University, Jackson State University, Mississippi Valley State University and Southern University at New Orleans.

The HBCU Pathway is designed to assist students in preparing to transition seamlessly from high school to an HBCU

upon completion of their associate degree at WCC. Program benefits include guaranteed admission into most partner schools, access to in-state tuition and scholarships at several partner schools, and HBCU campus tours and peer activities.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT DATA

DEMOGRAPHICS

3,500 First-Generation College Students

1,271 Single Parents

697 International Students

578 Students with Disabilities

495 Student Veterans

STUDENT LEARNING MODALITIES

5,653 Traditional Only (On-Campus)

5,353 Traditional & Distance Learning

9,277 Distance Learning Only

137 Programs Offered

49 Completely Online Programs

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

57 Associate Degrees Offered

Students that are categorized as degree seeking

78

80 Certificates Offered Transfer Agreements

NOTEWORTHY

FULL STEAM AHEAD

WCC received a $1.38 million National Science Foundation grant renewal to support STEM students and meet the national and state workforce need for well-educated scientists, mathematicians, engineers and technicians.

Speaking of STEM Scholars, WCC directed the spotlight at its graduating cohort to celebrate its success and wish them well on the next steps in their academic journey.

Students who attend part-time

25.9%

Students who intend to transfer to a four-year institution

Eight of the 12 students honored at the STEM Scholars Transfer celebration are now attending the University of Michigan. Others are attending Western Michigan University and Concordia University-Ann Arbor.

Students who attend full-time

$1.38 M

National Science Foundation grant renewal to support STEM students

growing a highly skilled workforce

New Apprenticeship Opportunities Benefit Students, Local Workforce

Washtenaw Community College continues to expand its apprenticeship opportunities, which offer the win-win scenario of bolstering career readiness of its students while addressing the evolving demands of the local workforce.

New this past year, WCC joined together with local manufacturers and regional workforce development organizations to meet industry talent needs through the national Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) workand-learn apprenticeship program.

It resulted in an inaugural cohort of 10 advanced manufacturing students paired with a sponsoring company to complete a two-year work-and-learn

program, equipping students with necessary skills and offering the potential for a debt-free path to an associate degree.

The program offers apprenticeships and educational pathways to an associate degree from WCC and on-the-job training and mentoring through industry partners.

WCC was the first higher education institution in the state to join FAME.

Anchored by Toyota Motor North America, other active employers are Novi Precision, Lomar Machine & Tool Company, Orbitform and Caster Concepts.

“I didn’t plan to go to college only because of the price, but now I can leave without debt,” said Andrea Guzman, who

started a research and development apprenticeship at Toyota’s York Township facility. “We get a job through FAME, and they’re paying you. I’m very excited with everything that is happening and the support I’m getting. It’s awesome.”

Beyond the FAME program, WCC is partnering with another local organization to build its employee pipeline. ZOLLER, Inc. donated nearly $250,000 in equipment to train WCC students on state-of-the-art machinery that measures precision cutting tools, along with an advanced tool management system.

ZOLLER’s equipment gift is part of a multi-pronged investment in WCC and the future workforce, including a robust apprenticeship program with a

direct path to hire and train fourto-six students per year for highdemand careers with the company. The North American headquarters of the Germany-based technology company is located in Ann Arbor.

Graduates who participate in the apprentice program will be part of ZOLLER’s service team, traveling throughout the country to calibrate the company’s precision tool measurement equipment installed in automotive, shipbuilding, aero-space, medical device and energy technology manufacturing facilities.

ZOLLER Training & Development Manager Michael Stepke demonstrates the company’s donated equipment to WCC President Dr. Rose B. Belllanca

ZOLLER, Inc. donated in equipment to train wcc students

Afame gives wcc student apprentice new outlook

happening on the job. I never really felt invested in my earlier jobs; it was just a means to an end. But here I want to go to work and do a good job,” he says.

Industry Partnerships Deliver On-the-Job Training

WCC’s partnerships with business and industry offering on-the-job training for students are growing. In addition to ZOLLER Inc. and the FAME participants

– Toyota Motor North America, Novi Precision, Lomar Machine & Tool Company, Orbitform and Caster Concepts – other WCC apprenticeship and work-and-learn companies are:

NOTEWORTHY

t age 32, and after a few different career starts, Andrew Denton knew it was time for a change – one that would open big doors. Now, as an apprentice through WCC’s new Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education ( FAME ) program, he is learning skills that will set him up for a high-demand high-wage job. “I was tired of getting stuck at low pay, working hard with no promotions or raises. I realized I needed to do something and get paid for a skill,” Denton says.

When he first considered returning to school, Denton thought about studying to become an electrician but soon was directed to the FAME work-and-learn apprenticeship program. Denton committed to the 18-month program, which set him up with a 30-hour a week paid internship at Orbitform in Jackson. He works three days a week and is on campus for classes two days a week.

“I’m learning a lot. You learn things at school and then you go to work the next day and you see that very thing

At WCC, Denton is pursuing an Associate in Applied Science in MechatronicsRobotics and Automated Systems. The mechatronics program exposes students to a multi-disciplinary approach to skills development for jobs in the advanced manufacturing industry.

Just completing his first semester in the FAME program, Denton is already thinking ahead. He says can see himself staying with Orbitform after the apprenticeship or possibly transferring to a four-year college or university to pursue an electrical engineering degree.

• Axis Engineering

• Detroit Thermal Systems

• Faurecia

• Magna

• Meijer

• Michigan Medicine - HITS

• MMI Engineered Solutions

• O. Keller Tool

• Promess

• Purem by Eberspacher

• SESI Motors

• Toyota and Subaru of Ann Arbor

• University of Michigan

Facilities & Operations

• Washtenaw County Government

WCC was selected as an education partner for Amazon’s Career Choice program, providing Amazon’s hourly employees access to academic degrees and professional development courses. The program meets individual learners where they are on their education journey through a variety of education and upskilling opportunities, including pre-paid college tuition, industry certifications designed to lead to in-demand jobs.

Short-Term Training for In-Demand Jobs

A second instructor was added to the Trainco Inc.’s Truck Driving School program being hosted at WCC to accommodate the growing popularity of the program. Each three-week session can take up to six students and there continues to be a waiting list for the full-service CDL-A training program. New CDL-A drivers can earn between $50,000 and $95,000 annually, according to Trainco vice president Jim Brywczynski.

WCC Becomes Amazon Education Partner

WCC student Andrea Guzman signs her FAME apprenticeship agreement with Toyota North America alongside

Interim Vice President of Instruction & Chief Workforce & Community Development Officer Brandon Tucker

and Toyota analyst Tyler Ray.

growing a highly skilled workforce

Filling Talent Gaps with new Specialized Short-Term Training NOTEWORTHY

Anew 10-week Pharmacy Technician training program was introduced at WCC to help meet a workforce shortage of skilled pharmacy technicians. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of pharmacy technician job openings is forecasted to increase to 436,072 by 2030

The training includes 170 hours of hybrid didactic sessions and 230 hours of on-site clinical experience.

The WCC Center for Career Success isn’t here just to help the college’s students and alumni prepare for and find jobs… it also provides free services to the entire Washtenaw County community, with the largest events being bi-annual career fairs. Nearly 200 different companies participated in the Spring and Fall career fairs, many seeking to immediately fill open positions. The center hosts multiple free preparation workshops and events throughout the year.

The Center for Career Success partners with Handshake, the No. 1 website for college students to find job listings, connect with employers and preview career fairs and events. The online recruiting platform awarded the center a Career Spark Award for its employer engagement and student interaction.

Entrepreneurship Center Empowers Students, Community Members to Realize Small Business Dreams

With a commitment to fostering economic growth and nurturing local talent, the Entrepreneurship Center at WCC is a vital catalyst for WCC students and community members aspiring to start or expand their own small businesses.

While providing year-round free access to a comprehensive range of resources and guidance, the Entrepreneurship Center celebrated its highlight event of the year when it awarded six local entrepreneurs with cash prizes during its annual Pitch@WCC competition.

The top prize of $7,500 was awarded to Brian Scott for his business, Broadcast Boot Camp, which exposes local youth to basic radio show and podcast production through a hands-on, interactive teaching method. The training is taken to where resources are limited by partnering with community organizations.

Katherine Keeler was the winner of a first-of-its-kind student pitch competition. Keeler won $500 to use toward her business that would offer vehicle maintenance workshops and provide educational materials to women.

“We had an overwhelming response to our Pitch contest this year, making it extremely difficult to narrow the finalist group down to 15 entrepreneurs,” said Entrepreneurship Director Michelle Julet. “All competitors’ pitches were outstanding and we look forward to continuing to work with them on their entrepreneurial journey.”

NOTEWORTHY

UPSKILLING NEW AND INCUMBENT FORKLIFT OPERATORS WITH OSHA COMPLIANT TRAINING

WCC is partnering with Andersen Material Handling to offer OSHAcompliant forklift operator training that fits the needs of new and seasoned operators and leads to a certificate of completion.

The four-hour training offers small class sizes to allow for a student-to-instructor ratio that ensures hands-on learning by a certified instructor.

WCC OFFERS JOB-READY BOOTCAMPS

2,000+

265

250

WCC partnered with MichiganWorks! Southeast and local employers to offer an IT Cybersecurity Bootcamp and a Foundation of C.A.R.E. Bootcamp, each preparing graduates to quickly fill in-demand jobs in the fast-growing tech and healthcare industries. Both training courses were in response to a shortage of skilled workers in these respective labor forces and at the request of industry partners.

ENRICHING LIVES & SPARKING INTERESTs

New Esports Arena Opens for Recreation, Competition and Learning

A new, state-of-the-art Esports Arena opened on the Washtenaw Community College campus which combines a bit of recreation, friendly competition and teamwork while introducing students to some of the academic and career opportunities within the growing esports industry

The new facility, located in room 239 of the college’s Technical & Industrial Building, features a dedicated internet service provider, 14 high-speed gaming computer stations, a console game lounge with 65-inch 4K TVs, and the latest gaming consoles, including two Nintendo Switches, one Playstation 5, and one Xbox Series X. Esports college club-level teams compete in the space and other enrolled students have access to weekly free play. Local high school teams have also been invited to use the space for scrimmages, practices and tournaments.

WCC offers multiple academic programs for students interested in acquiring skills that can be used to gain employment in the esports industry, including Sports and Entertainment Management, 3D Animation for Game Art, C++ Programming, Java Programming, Digital Video Production and Broadcast

5,589 Enrolled in non-credit professional development and enrichment programs

CHILDREN LEARN, GROW, EXPLORE AT YPSILANTI’S PARKRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTER

Learning is fun for young students at Parkridge Community Center where WCC hosts an annual summer learning experience and provides ongoing cultural, educational, and recreational activities for youth in the community throughout the year.

The college held its annual six-week academic Summer Learning Experience there, providing engaging activities which included teacher-led instruction in math, reading, Spanish, and STEM topics. WCC also reimagined its Parkridge After-School program.

STUDENTS’ EFFORT LEADS TO TEDxWCC EVENT

WCC student Sabina Montalva’s desire to bring a new experience to campus resulted in TEDxWCC, a series of talks held in the college’s Towsley Auditorium on the appropriate theme of “Open Doors.” Montalva had previously participated in a TEDx Talk, a smaller-scale version of the famous TED Talks that are fully planned and coordinated locally.

Desiring to bring a TEDx to WCC, Montalva approached Communication faculty member Claire Sparklin, who frequently uses TED Talks as examples in her Fundamentals of Speaking course. Coincidentally, Sparklin is the academic advisor to the Discovery Club, one of dozens of student-led clubs offered through WCC Student Organizations. The goal of the Discovery Club is to “explore engaging topics outside of the classroom while creating professional experiences for students of diverse backgrounds.”

With a TEDx Talk being an ideal fit with the club’s mission, a full planning committee formed, and the event was held in April 2023. Fellow student organizer Maya Clarren said the “Open Doors” theme was chosen because it related to WCC’s open door admission policy while also being an inspirational topic for participants to create their own story.

1,000 + registrations during free college week

NOTEWORTHY

COMMUNITY WELCOMES

POPULAR FREE COLLEGE WEEK CLASSES

In recognition of national Community College Month in April, WCC offered community members an opportunity to attend 140 free online sessions with more than 1,000 registrations during its annual Free College Week, a unique chance for the college to serve and engage the community that supports it by providing high quality learning experiences at no cost.

Topics ranged from computer skills and business to exploring cultures and improving personal wellness. WCC faculty, trainers from the college’s non-credit division and representa tives of outside businesses taught the classes, which were offered multiple times throughout the day to offer flexibility to accommodate schedules.

CTE MONTH CELEBRATED WITH EVENTS FOR STUDENTS AND COMMUNITY

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month was celebrated at WCC in February to inform students and the community about what CTE is and how it directly prepares students for high-wage, high-demand careers. CTE impacts a wide variety of fields including health care, information technology, advanced manufacturing, management and more.

Many CTE events were open to the public, including an employer discussion panel, CTE-themed movies and a virtual presentation on non-traditional careers for women.

A path to prosperity

wcc launches ypsilanti focused jobs-education initiative

Underrepresented populations in the City of Ypsilanti will have access to a jobs and education initiative thanks to a $2.09 million grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation to Washtenaw Community College. With the funding, WCC has launched Advance Ypsi, an initiative to strengthen pathways to prosperity through education and career development and boost the quality of life throughout the city.

Advance Ypsi is part of the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Detroit Drives Degrees Community College Collaborative (D3C3), which announced over $30 million in support from Ballmer Group and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation.

The D3C3 initiative is a partnership with seven southeast Michigan community colleges, including Washtenaw, to ensure students have equitable educational opportunities and graduate with highvalue credentials or degrees that lead to goodpaying, in-demand jobs with local employers, boosting the Region’s overall prosperity.

Advance YPSI will serve 300 Ypsilanti Community Schools high school students and adults from Ypsilanti over three years, training and preparing them for careers with an earning potential of at least $40,000. When fully realized, more than $12 million annually could be earned by residents in a community where 50% of households live below the poverty level and the postsecondary educational rate is 20%, according to the most recent US Census.

“WCC has long been a community partner to build

bridges for students in their education and pursuit of jobs and careers that will help them prosper not only today but for a lifetime,” said WCC college President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “This is an historic initiative that has the potential to transform the regional talent pipeline in southeast Michigan and support the goal of college completion.”

Advance Ypsi launched in the Fall of 2023 with an emphasis on careers in mobility-focused transportation, manufacturing and IT sectors.

“We are working hand in hand with YCS, employers and WCC faculty to develop curriculum that pairs classroom instruction with real-world experience to equip students for jobs in high-demand sectors, many of which are going unfilled in today’s economy due to a lack of skillworkers,” said Brandon Tucker WCC Interim Vice President of Instruction & Chief Workforce & Community Development Officer.

Students will be supported every step of the way through a robust career coaching model that will include mentors, tutoring, small class sizes for

deeper learning opportunities, expert resources and onthe-job training from employers.

(From left) WCC Board of Trustees Vice Chair William G. Milliken Jr., Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation President & CEO David Egner, WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca, Detroit Regional Chamber President & CEO Sandy Baruah and WCC Interim Vice President of Instruction & Chief Workforce & Community Development Officer Brandon Tucker after the announcement of a $2 million grant that will fund the college’s Advance Ypsi initiative.

Second Annual VetFest Connects Veterans with Resources

More than 500 visitors enjoyed a picture perfect day on the WCC campus when the college hosted the second annual Washtenaw County VetFest in July. All military veterans and their families were invited for a day of free food, fun and information.

WCC’s Wadhams Veterans Center organized the event, with assistance from multiple veterans organizations across the county. Along with free food, live music, cold treats and hourly raffles, VetFest also featured resource provider exhibits that provided veterans with access to the major resources and benefit providers in the area.

MURPH CHALLENGE BENEFITS SCHOLARSHIPS

The Wadhams Veterans Center and the Health & Fitness Center at WCC partnered to become one of nine official hosts of the Murph Challenge in the state of Michigan and more than 400 across the country. The physical fitness challenge is a fundraiser for the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation.

Garnering the Gold for Our Veterans

WCC has again been named a Gold-Level, Veteran-Friendly School by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. Gold-level honor means the college met at least six of seven Michigan Veteran-Friendly Schools program criteria. Nearly 500 military veterans are enrolled at WCC, and the college offers comprehensive support services to veterans and their families through its Wadhams Veterans Center, including an active Student Veterans of America Club on campus.

20-year United States Army veteran and WCC student Rebekah Spencer speaks at Veterans Day celebration.

Record Number of Union Trainers Visit WCC growth

WCC becomes resource to Strengthen Workforce development training

WCC joined the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) to strengthen workforce development training for small businesses across the state.

WCC is the only educational institution to be an SBAM Friend of Small Business and will become a resource for fellow members, offering customized training, leadership boot camps, general study programming, entrepreneurial assistance and other resources through the WCC Workforce Development department and its Entrepreneurship Center.

The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers extended its partnership with WCC through 2030, continuing its renowned Instructor Training Program (ITP) on the Washtenaw Community College campus.

Washtenaw Community College has been expanding its training partnerships with skilled trades unions for decades and hit new heights in the summer of 2023 when more than 5,000 members of five organizations trained on campus.

As attendance numbers rise, so does the economic impact. Destination Ann Arbor estimates the partnerships bring $20 million to Washtenaw County annually.

International unions representing roofers, cement masons, ironworkers and electrical workers all made week-long visits to campus for “train the trainer” instruction. Trainers then return home to instruct union members across the country.

Those training programs are based on the highly successful United Association Instructor Training Program (ITP) that WCC has hosted for the past 34 years. This year, more than 2,300 ITP students, along with nearly 1,000 other union members, instructors, administrators and vendor representatives visited the area.

After completing the five-year program, instructors earn the UA Instructor Training Certificate. UA

members also have the opportunity to continue their studies to earn an associate degree from WCC. In 2022-23, 28 UA ITP graduates also donned a traditional cap-and-gown to receive their WCC associate degrees.

Agreement Extensions

While approximately 800 Ironworkers were on campus, the international union extended its training partnership with WCC with a five year contract extension. The Ironworkers first moved their annual instructor training to WCC’s campus in 2010. Since then, approximately 8,500 union members have visited.

WCC and the Sprinkler Fitters of the United Association, Local 669, also extended their partnership to educate and train members. Since WCC and Local 669 first partnered 15 years ago, nearly 5,000 apprentices have completed the five-year program, which blends on-the-job training, hands-on training and virtual training that features online access to courses offered through WCC.

5,000 members of organizations who came to wcc to advance their skills

BELLANCA HONORED AS ‘ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CHAMPION’

In recognition of her outstanding leadership and contributions to the economic development of the Ann Arbor region, Washtenaw Community College President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca was honored as an “Economic Development Champion” by Ann Arbor SPARK at its 2023 annual meeting.

SPARK President & CEO Paul Krutko recognized Bellanca for establishing strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, creating opportunities for students and promoting workforce development in the area.

Bellanca was celebrated for championing initiatives address-

ing the skills gap and in playing a significant role in building a more diverse and inclusive economy.

Bhushan Kulkarni, co-chair of the Michigan Founders Fund, contributed to a tribute video created in Bellanca’s honor, stating: “ Rose has really played a leadership role in this community

in understanding how talent attraction and retention drives economic growth in terms of business attraction and retention. She has been the backbone of that cause.”

awards & honors

WCC the Only Community College Named a Nursing Center of Excellence

Washtenaw Community College was named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education once again by the National League for Nursing, the only community college and one of just nine nursing programs nationwide to earn the honor in 2023.

Noted for enhancing student learning and professional development, WCC is among leading teaching hospitals, clinical sites and other nursing education programs recognized.

“This prestigious national designation offers a lifetime career boost for our students,” said WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca.

“ We are honored that the dedication and hard work of WCC’s nursing faculty and staff, along with our exceptional nursing program, are recognized by the National League for Nursing.”

Centers of Excellence are named based on measurable demonstration of sustained excellence in faculty development, nursing education research, student learning and professional development and academic progression in nursing.

The value of being educated in a Center of Excellence extends beyond the quality of patient care delivered by graduates.

The recognition will also benefit students with future employers and educational institutions where they may transfer to earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees. WCC’s nursing program began in 1992 and now graduates about 120 nurses each year. The college maintains transfer partnerships with the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, and many graduates continue their education to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Most graduates become employed within the community at various types of health care facilities. This is the seond time WCC has earned this recognition.

WCC EARNS GOLD FROM EXERCISE IS MEDICINE

WCC became one of 73 colleges and universities worldwide to be honored with gold-level status by Exercise is Medicine for its efforts to create a culture of wellness on campus.

“This is the culmination of many years of individuals across the campus developing and honing activity programs to promote health and wellness,” said Dr. Marvin Boluyt, an Exercise Science faculty member who leads the Exercise is Medicine On Campus (EIM-OC) initiative at WCC.

Boluyt credits the college incorporating an Exercise Vital Sign question at multiple touch points across campus and its creation of a new “To The Moon” physical activity tracking program for pushing WCC beyond the American College of Sports Medicine’s criteria for gold-level recognition.

Of the 149 total campuses recognized by EIM-OC, 73 received gold, 55 silver and 21 bronze. WCC was one of only three community colleges to receive the gold designation.

Proud students Selena P., Kasydy B. and Chelsey C. with their Dean’s List certificate at the 2023 Honors Convocation.

WCC recognized for the fourth consecutive year as a Bee Campus USA Affiliate.

WCC named Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing.

2023 Student Production Awards winner Corey Konjarevich with WCC instructor Matt Zacharias.

NOTEWORTHY

STUDENTS EARN FIRST PLACE AWARDS FROM NATIONAL ACADEMY OF TELEVISION ARTS & SCIENCES

WCC students Nehemiah Harmsen and Corey Konjarevich each took home first-place honors from the 2023 Student Production Awards, sponsored by the Michigan chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. It’s the second award in as many years for Harmsen, who won in the Animation/ Graphics/Special Effects category for his work, “I’m Still Here(Trailer).” Konjarevich won in the Photographer category for “Detroit Become Human: The Unknowns.” WCC Video Production students have won 41 first-place prizes since first entering the Student Production Awards contest in 2012.

WCC BUZZING WITH PRIDE WITH REPEAT BEE CAMPUS USA AWARD

For the fourth consecutive year, WCC was recognized as a Bee Campus USA affiliate by The Xerces Society for enhancing pollinator habitats, pesticide reduction and educating the community. This year, WCC’s Bee Campus USA Committee introduced a new pollinator garden between the Crane Liberal Arts & Sciences and Gunder Myran buildings on campus. The garden was designed to attract all pollinators, including bees, butterflies, birds and more.

Christina Smith wins 1st prize at the 2023 WCC Student Art Show for ‘Metrocity’.

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BOARD CHAIR

Angela Davis

VICE CHAIR

William G. Milliken Jr.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

TREASURER

David DeVarti

SECRETARY

Ruth A. Hatcher TRUSTEES

Christina M. H. Fleming

Diana McKnight-Morton

Alex Milshteyn

WCC PRESIDENT

Rose B. Bellanca, Ed.D.

MISSION

Our College strives to make a positive difference in people’s lives through accessible and excellent educational programs and services.

VALUES

Teaching and Learning:

We embrace teaching and learning as our central purpose.

Support: We make every effort to help learners achieve success.

Diversity: We respect differences in people and in ideas.

Partnerships: We plan and work together with respect, trust, and honesty within the College and with the communities we serve.

Innovation: We seek the best possible ways to conduct our work.

VISION

WCC is a learner-centered, open-door college dedicated to student, community and staff success. We offer a wide spectrum of community college services with an emphasis on premier technical and career educational programs. The College staff continuously learns to improve learning.

Washtenaw Community College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, Illinois 60604-1411; 800-621-7440; ncahlc.org. Contact 734-973-3300 for information about Washtenaw Community College. Washtenaw Community College.

ADA/EEO/Title IX/Section 504 Compliance Statements

Washtenaw Community College does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other protected status in its programs and activities. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Vice President of Student Services, SC 251, 734-973-3536. Facility access inquiries: V.P. of Facilities, Development & Operations, PO 112, 734-677-5322. If you have a disability and require accommodation, contact Learning Support Services at 734-973-3342 to request accommodations at least 72 hours in advance. Learn more at wccnet.edu/compliance.