Howard Community College's Commitment to Student Parents
Howard Community College has been awarded the esteemed FamilyU Seal, a national certification that acknowledges higher education institutions committed to supporting the success of student parents.
Recognizing Excellence in Student Support
The FamilyU Seal is presented by Generation Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to improving educational outcomes for student parents. This accolade highlights the colleges that excel in four key areas of student-parent support: data, people, policy, and culture. Howard Community College’s achievement reflects its dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for its students.
Leadership and Vision at HCC
HCC President Daria J. Willis expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, emphasizing the collective effort of the Family U team to empower student parents. "This acknowledgment is significant for our community, and I’m proud of our commitment to enhancing student-parent success," said Willis.
Innovative Programs for Student Empowerment
One of HCC’s flagship initiatives is the Parent Scholars Program, which delivers essential academic, social, and financial support to 148 students each year. The program typically experiences a waitlist, underscoring the high demand for services geared toward student parents. Recent efforts also included the formation of a Faculty, Administrators, and Staff Task Force, launched to directly address the concerns raised by student parents.
Child-Friendly Campus Enhancements
As a part of its commitment to foster a family-friendly atmosphere, HCC has implemented significant infrastructure improvements. Dedicated family study rooms have been established in both the campus library and the Academic Center for Excellence. Improvements also feature lactation rooms, expanded parking for parents, and food pantry access across campus facilities, ensuring comprehensive support for student parents.
Accessibility and Student Success
To enhance participation, HCC has introduced early registration access, granting all Parent Scholars Program participants priority for class selections. This streamlined process helps student parents balance their educational and familial obligations more effectively.
Positive Outcomes in Academic Achievement
Survey results obtained from HCC’s Yearly Evaluation of Services by Students (YESS) reveal that 71.8% of the surveyed student parents feel equipped with the necessary resources to manage their childcare responsibilities. Remarkably, these students maintain an average GPA of 2.8, which is higher than the general student body’s average of 2.6, showcasing their resilience in balancing studies and family life.
Innovative Recognition and Future Aspirations
According to Nicole Lynn Lewis, Founder and CEO of Generation Hope, the ongoing development of support initiatives for student parents is vital in promoting stability and success for families. HCC's efforts have garnered national media recognition, including features in significant educational documentaries and accolades from prominent foundations for its innovative support strategies.
Personal Testimonials from Student Parents
Jocelyn Vera, a participant of the Parent Scholars Program, shared her experience, stating, "Howard Community College is incredibly supportive. As a single mother, I have access to advisors who genuinely care about my success. They provide essential resources, enabling me to focus on my academics while managing my responsibilities as a parent."
About Howard Community College
Established in 1970, Howard Community College (HCC) has become a premier choice for students and families in the region. As a public community college, HCC offers a diverse array of associate degrees, certificate programs, and workforce development training opportunities, serving nearly 22,000 students each year. The college was honored with the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s highest honor for organizational excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FamilyU Seal?
The FamilyU Seal is a national certification awarded to colleges that excel in supporting student parents, focusing on crucial areas like data, policy, people, and culture.
How does HCC support student parents?
HCC offers programs like the Parent Scholars Program, dedicated study spaces, priority registration, and essential resources such as lactation rooms and food pantry access.
What are the benefits of the Parent Scholars Program?
This program provides participants with academic support, advising, and resources to help them succeed in their educational endeavors while managing family responsibilities.
What initiatives has HCC implemented for student parents?
HCC has established a Faculty, Administrators, and Staff Task Force, created policies for children on campus, and enhanced campus facilities to support student parents.
How does HCC's achievement impact the student community?
The recognition boosts the college's efforts in creating an inclusive environment, ensuring that student parents feel supported in their academic journey, which positively affects their overall success.
