Dear Colleagues,

Last summer, I announced my retirement as president of the Colorado Community College System. The time has finally come to say goodbye. As I reflect on the last 14 years, I have to express what a privilege it has been to work with such talented staff, faculty, and students.

I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together during my tenure as president. In 2017 alone, we awarded 21,000 certificates and degrees and 63% of students graduated without debt due to consistently affordable tuition rates. Because of our efforts to create statewide transfer agreements, more students have saved money in their pursuit of higher education.

We delivered on our commitment to make education accessible throughout the state, increasing use of our online course offerings to nearly 50,000 students. We are meeting workforce demands with highly sought-after programs and credentials, such as associates of applied science, dental hygiene and emergency management services degrees. And we have also worked to increase concurrent enrollment options with local high schools, ultimately saving students and their families $24 million per year in their quest for higher education degrees.

From the beginning, my number one priority has been student success. Through our colleges, we find a path for everyone regardless of their financial situations, and we believe every student should have access to college and the right to succeed. Our students leave our colleges with a sense of pride, having been part of the largest system for higher education in the state.

None of these accomplishments would be possible without the support of my impressive team members – past and present. I am so grateful for the enthusiasm and dedication I have witnessed from this talented and remarkable community. I believe CCCS is well positioned for future success with Joe Garcia at the helm and I look forward to seeing the contributions our students will continue making in Colorado communities and beyond.

It has been my honor and privilege to serve as president of this system and I am thankful for your encouragement and support over the years.

Sincerely,

Nancy J. McCallin, Ph.D., President

Colorado Community College System