Quinsigamond Community College recently held its All College Day, an event that highlighted the institution's progress and strategic initiatives for the future, as well as firsthand accounts from several students.
QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja led the presentation, highlighting QCC's significant growth, thanks in part to MassEducate and MassReconnect, which awarded $5 million to 3,923 students to date.
The Latinx student population at QCC has also grown, now surpassing the 25% threshold required to become an official Hispanic Serving Institution/Minority Serving Institution. A group has been tasked with researching the application process and outcomes for this designation. This demographic shift is not just about numbers, Pedraja noted, but about creating an inclusive environment where every student can succeed.
Leadership is focusing on strategic priorities, including developing a group to address emerging AI technological challenges and opportunities and group to explore innovative learning options such as a three-year bachelor's degree programs.
Additionally, the college continues to invest in its physical and academic infrastructure, with plans for:
- Library renovations featuring state-of-the-art study rooms and student gathering spaces
- Athletic Center renovation
- Ongoing advocacy for faculty and staff compensation
The event also showcased the resilience and potential of QCC students through three inspiring narratives.
Amanda Quinones shared her journey that started at a four-year university that didn't fulfill her needs as she navigated work, the pandemic and becoming a new mother. When she decided to give higher education another try at QCC, she found an environment that was supportive and flexible. She is hoping the college can encourage a stronger sense of community for online students, adding that her own relationship with Academic Counselor Christina Tzortzinis and with faculty members have had a positive impact on her.
"The professors here made me feel seen in ways that I wasn’t at my previous institution," Amanda said.
Student Government Association President Michael Frey also started college at another institution in his home state of Arizona, but found himself lacking motivation. After moving to Massachusetts and starting at QCC, he has fully embraced academics and extracurriculars that include being a member of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, Commonwealth Honors, participating in orientation and working at the HomePlate Food Pantry & Resource Center.
"QCC has given me a second chance at college," Michael shared.
Finishing off the student testimonials was PTK President and recent Business Administration graduate Talissa Goncalves. As an international student from Brazil, Talissa embodies determination. She described working with the Community Closet project that demonstrates QCC's dedication to underserved populations, by providing free clothing and hygiene products to hundreds of students and community members.
QCC's All College Day reinforced the institution's core mission: creating an environment where every student can thrive, regardless of their background or challenges.