Charliene McWeeny Staff Writer
On Sept. 30, 2013 Brian Benedetti, Pierce Director of Marketing and Communications, sent out a press release announcing that Pierce College was awarded 1.8 million dollars.
Denise Yochum President of Fort Steilacoom Pierce College said at best “1.8 million dollars over five years isn’t something to sneeze at.”
A Title III Grant is a Federal grant awarded to institutes to help better its student’s success and programs. It can also be known as “Strengthening Institution Programs.”
Dr. Michele Johnson, chancellor of Pierce College, stated in the press release, “There is so much we need and want to do to provide more support for students who struggle academically. We have strong commitment across the district to improve student outcomes, and we’ve taken some big steps.”
For 2013 this award will bring Pierce College $394,384 to help support students succeed academically. With this grant students will have even greater chances in completing their degrees at Pierce.
Yochum explained, “The Title III Grant really asks colleges to make assessments and find gaps or problem areas. I really loved how the whole institute came together to find our problem areas. The Focused areas are Professional Development with the Center for Engagement and Learning, along with Communication and the Distribution of data.”
With some time and the Title III grant, more and more students will be able to succeed in their classes and earn the degrees they have been working toward. Pierce has also gotten recognition from Senator Patty Murray in Washington D.C. from the promising award of Title III grant.
