Statement From HACC President John J. "Ski" Sygielski, Ed.D., On President Obama's Proposal Regarding Free Community Colleges

Statement by HACC President John J. "Ski" Sygielski, Ed.D.:

This is a very exciting day because it not only shows the belief President Obama has in the mission of community colleges, it also could prove an opportunity to further the mission of HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, by providing opportunities for people who previously could not afford college.

This proposal will enhance what HACC already does in our partnerships with local businesses to provide the education and training their employees need to succeed in the workplace. HACC and community colleges provide the tools that workers need to upgrade their skills. We are the portable training department for small businesses.

I look forward to working with our congressional delegation to help them better understand the President Obama’s proposal and make it beneficial to all of their constituents in our service region.

Finally, President Obama’s proposal aligns with Gov.-elect Tom Wolf’s focus on “cradle to grave” education, which includes HACC and the 13 community colleges as a vital component. As co-chair of Wolf's transition committee for education, I have been very impressed with his administration’s commitment to education and how it will work to further strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy. Education is the key to a more competitive workforce and, in turn, a better economy.

For further information or general inquiries, please email newsroom@hacc.edu. This is the most effective way to ensure a timely response.

About HACC
HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, offers more than 150 career and transfer associate degree, certificate and diploma programs to nearly 20,000 students at campuses in Gettysburg, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon and York and through online classes. In addition, HACC serves more than 29,000 students in noncredit workforce development, public safety, adult basic education and continuing education programs offered at all campuses and off-site locations in many communities in Central Pennsylvania. For more information on how HACC is uniquely YOURS, visit www.hacc.edu.