Courtney, Bilirakis Celebrate Community College Month
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, in honor of Community College Month, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) and Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) led lawmakers in introducing a bipartisan resolution to recognize community colleges’ significant contributions to students and the workforce.
“Community colleges provide a quality and affordable higher education and equip students with in-demand skills for lifelong careers,” said Courtney, a senior Member of the House Education and Workforce Committee. “In Connecticut’s Second District, community college health care and manufacturing programs are connecting their students to careers that meet our region’s workforce needs. I’m glad to introduce this resolution recognizing the great history of community colleges and the importance of their mission to our nation’s future. I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver the investments that community colleges and students need.”
"As Co-Chair of the Community College Caucus, I'm proud to co-introduce a resolution recognizing the important role that community colleges play in our society. These institutions open doors to opportunity, providing accessible, affordable education and workforce training that empower individuals and strengthen our communities. Community colleges serve as a vital bridge—helping students achieve their goals, supporting local economies, and preparing a skilled workforce for the future," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.
Today, there are 1,024 community colleges serving 10,500,000 credit and noncredit students. Public community colleges are an affordable option charging average annual tuition and fees for in-district students of $4,050, have an average student age of 27, and serve students who often are working, low-income, parents, veterans, or the first in their family to go to college.
Alumni of America’s community colleges generated nearly $900 billion in added income to the national economy in fiscal year 2020, or 4.1 percent of the total gross domestic product. Every dollar of public funding for community colleges returns $6.80 in tax revenue generated. Investing in community colleges is good for U.S. taxpayers and the economy.
Courtney and Bilirakis’ resolution is cosponsored by 30 House Members and is endorsed by the Center for American Progress, the Association of Community College Trustees, Third Way, and the Institute of College Access & Success.
On Wednesday, April 22nd, an identical resolution honoring Community College Month (S.Res. 686) introduced by Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) passed the Senate unanimously.
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