Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry announced a U.S. Department of Education grant in the amount of $394,190 to Cleveland Community College.  This amount represents the first installment of the grant that is expected to exceed $1 million.

“Quality higher education and job training are critical to a stronger economy in Western North Carolina.  Cleveland Community College is an outstanding institution and very deserving of this grant,” Congressman McHenry stated.

The grant will fund improvements to the student advising services at Cleveland Community College.  Currently, the College provides academic and course guidance, but does not have the means to offer full-time professional advising services to help guide students beyond their academic studies. However, with this grant, the College will create a Student Success Center to expand the scope of student counseling.

“The Title Three Grant provides us an incredible opportunity to better serve the citizens of Cleveland County,” commented Dr. L. Steve Thornburg, President of Cleveland Community College.  “We will have more tools to help students get the help they need to achieve their educational goals.”

Additionally, the college will use some of the grant to fund early intervention efforts to assist students with academic difficulties.

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