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This commentary is by Beth Mauch of Cornwall, chancellor of the Vermont State Colleges System.
Rural higher education is key to both individual success and the future of Vermont’s economy. The Vermont State Colleges System (VSCS) is dedicated to providing affordable and relevant education to meet students where they are. We embrace change and have become a national model in our ability to adapt while remaining committed to serving the people of Vermont.
Over the past four years, the education landscape has changed dramatically. Our challenge has been determining our response. VSCS focused on building a new approach that prioritizes student needs and aligns with job market demands. Our colleges are evolving, but that’s positive. We’re discovering new opportunities and strengths in these changes, guided by our mission to benefit Vermonters.
Looking ahead, we aim to increase enrollment and access while introducing new programs that respond to the in-demand labor market. By collaborating with industry partners, we ensure that our degrees and certificates remain relevant and valuable, ultimately boosting Vermont’s economic resilience and providing better job prospects for our students.
Education should be within reach for everyone, regardless of their background. Today’s learners have unique needs. That’s why we offer a mix of in-person, hybrid, and online programs. Our five campuses offer engaging on-site experiences, while hybrid options combine face-to-face and online learning. Fully online programs allow students from any location to receive quality education, accommodating different schedules and lifestyles.
This flexible approach is what our students seek and need. It ensures every Vermonter can find the right educational pathway, whether they are recent high school graduates, career-changers, or adults returning to school after a break. We provide the support and flexibility necessary for success.
Affordability is central to our mission. We strive to keep tuition low and offer financial aid options. We’re even exploring year-round housing solutions for our students. Fast-tracking certifications is part of our effort to help students enter the workforce quickly and affordably. We recognize that Vermonters have diverse needs, and we aim to provide multiple paths to education and training that align with workforce demands. Our goal is to prepare graduates for high-demand jobs in fields like healthcare, technology, and the skilled trades.
The success stories from our colleges demonstrate our impact. For example, VTSU produces a significant number of licensed nurses each year, with over 80% of graduates choosing to work within Vermont, fulfilling essential roles in healthcare. At CCV, our programs in cybersecurity and accounting equip graduates with the skills needed to meet employer demands in today’s job market.
The VSCS is committed to embracing innovation and collaboration to meet the changing needs of our students, state, and employers. We are unifying our resources to serve Vermonters better than ever, but we need support from policymakers, community leaders, employers, and the public. With the dedication of our outstanding faculty and staff, we are focused on ensuring that every learner has access to the education and training they need to succeed. Whether it’s an aspiring author or a plumbing apprentice, we are committed to nurturing every dream and educational pathway for future generations.
Check out this related article: Join Us for the MDC Hunter Education Skills Class at James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area!
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