The budgetary pressures are compelling colleges to increase tuition to offset decreased state support. In addition, in recent years, there has been a shift in government policies from grants to student loans. Despite Whatcom’s relatively affordable tuition, we’re concerned that students will not be able to afford higher education and that those who do accept federal student loans will graduate with substantial debt. Whatcom tries to minimize and discourage student loan debt, however, with the economic decline and cuts to state work study, many Whatcom students would not be enrolled without financial support.

Funding enables employees to attend professional conferences and events where they polish skills and gain valuable contacts.  The College is also reviewing endowed chairs for Nursing and IT (CIS). High-quality faculty and staff are key to the success of our students and the strength of our economy. Faculty who update their knowledge, skills and abilities will bring the latest innovations and practices into the classroom so students are prepared for the real world, regardless of how fast it changes.

Directed to the College's greatest need, these gifts provide the Foundation resources to  help achieve key College initiatives that enhance the quality of WCC's services, assist students through scholarships, and support the professional development of faculty and staff. Previously known as the Fund for Excellence.

College leaders are pursuing improved labs and training programs to bolster Science, Technology, Education and Math (STEM) education, preparing students for the jobs of the future. The WCC Foundation—in partnership with local developers—is building the Health Professions Education Center at Cordata Parkway and Stuart Road. Once construction is complete in fall 2013, Whatcom’s Nursing and Allied Health programs will relocate to the state-of-the-art facility, freeing up existing classrooms and labs for renovation and use by other critical STEM disciplines. 

The Health Professions Education Center’s high-quality instruction spaces will ensure students are ready to succeed in today’s demanding healthcare jobs and will build upon Whatcom’s reputation of excellence. The new building will bolster WCC’s already strong Allied Health program. Graduates excel—100% of the 2012 nursing graduates passed their certification exam on the first attempt. While this is a remarkable accomplishment, it’s becoming an expectation for Whatcom’s Allied Health students. Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant and Massage Practitioner graduates consistently far exceed national average pass rates on professional licensure exams.

This fund empowers the College President to anticipate and respond to the needs of the community and Whatcom’s students. Doing so secures Whatcom’s leadership role in innovation and excellence. Whatcom is focused on serving the community today and proactively preparing for the needs of the future.

Whatcom is listed among the top 15% of colleges, universities and trade schools nationwide that do the most to ensure the success of military service members, veterans, and spouses (G.I. Jobs magazine, Military Friendly Schools list). The Veterans Affairs Office—notably staffed by vets—wins high marks from students who say staff members’ dedication convinces them to enroll and to stay in school. During 2011-2012, an all-time high of 71 student veterans graduated, completed programs, or successfully transferred to four-year institutions. Given the exceptional completion achievement of veterans last year, Whatcom has 169 student veterans enrolled for fall 2012, compared to 268 students last year.

A gift to the WCC Foundation to enhance Veterans support programs is a meaningful way to say thank you to the men and women who serve our country. Without funding, the office will have to reduce service hours and delay program enhancements. 

If you would like to contribute to Whatcom Community College's meaningful story of community, education and economic empowerment through an event sponsorship, please contact us. View our Sponsor An Event page here for an overview of the events we have planned for 2013. Call (360)383-3320 or email foundation@whatcom.ctc.edu for a full list of 2013 sponsorship opportunities and level-specific information.