Board of Governors Approves Center Status for Two Southwestern College Centers
Approval means college can maintain/grow programs in San Ysidro and National City
The Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges voted unanimously today to grant Southwestern College full center status for its Higher Education Centers in National City and San Ysidro.
The approval ensures Southwestern College can maintain, and expand, program offerings at both centers, despite challenging economic times for higher education.
“I want to thank all faculty, staff and administrators at the National City and San Ysidro centers for their tireless work and unwavering commitment to our students and our community,” said Dr. Melinda Nish, Superintendent/President of Southwestern College.
To qualify for center status, an existing college must submit an application to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office for Board of Governors’ approval. Application requirements include ensured operation for 10 or more years; generation of at least 500 full-time equivalent students (FTES) annually; an on-site administrator; and offering programs leading to certificates and/or degrees conferred by the parent institution.
During the 2011-12 academic year, both Higher Education Centers generated more than double the required FTES—National City reached 1,058 FTES and San Ysidro reached 1,132.
Staff analysis from the Chancellor’s staff highlighted the general education offerings for both centers, with National City offering specialized programs in the area’s growing health care industry.
The Higher Education Center in National City has been operating since 1998. Using local Proposition AA funds, Southwestern College constructed a new two-story building that opened in 2004.
The Higher Education Center in San Ysidro opened in 1988 on the site of McDonald’s massacre, and was expanded to a new two-story facility in 2009, thanks to Proposition AA funds.
“Each of these centers are popular with students because they offer a full range of classes and student support services,” Nish said. “That need will only continue to increase over the next 10 years.”
5/6/13
