Spring 2021 Community Connection

Welcome

Jessica Rohan, Development Director

This Spring 2021 edition of the Community Connection is exciting as it not only explores many of CCC’s great programs, but also the successes of our students and alums. One recurring theme we frequently hear about is how success would not have been possible without support. This support takes many forms and is due to many generous individuals who give of both their time and resources. Without great faculty, staff, donors, and community partnerships and relationships, CCC and the CCC Foundation could not accomplish what we do – assisting students succeed in their educational pursuits and fulfilling dreams. Throughout this edition, I hope you see all the many ways that success truly does start at CCC.

Early College

Success Starts Early with Central Community College's Early College Program

Central Community College (CCC) partners with area high schools through the Early College program, which allows high school students to get an early start on their college education. This opportunity allows high school students to earn college/dual credit while still in high school placing them on an early path to post-secondary attainment and success. Jamey Peterson-Jones, early college director stated, “It’s exciting to see high school students graduate with both their high school diploma and some college credits that lead to a degree.” Many also have enough credits to receive a CCC certificate or diploma, which can set the student up for success as they enter post-secondary education and the workforce. 

Smiling Success

When Macey Martinson tells people what she does for a living, she often gets “the look.” That’s because she is a funeral director and embalmer with Homes for Funerals in Norfolk. The look is often followed with the question, “What would ever make you want to do that?” Her answer is always the same.

Entrepreneurial Success

For more than three decades, the Central Community College Entrepreneurship Center has been encouraging the formation of new small businesses and assisting existing small businesses with growth opportunities.

Grow Our Own - Auto Tech Style

Author Ashleigh Brilliant said, “Good ideas are common – what’s uncommon are people who’ll work hard enough to bring them about.”

Such could be said about Dan Janssen, owner of Holdrege-based Janssen Auto Group.

Graduation Recap

Commencement ceremonies for Central Community College’s Columbus, Grand Island and Hastings campuses were held on May 7, marking the return of in-person graduation exercises. The pandemic forced 2020’s commencement to be an online presentation. The following is a recap of the commencement address given by each campus’ Outstanding Alumni Award recipient.

Outstanding Alumni

Actively Supporting Students

The 38th Annual Ram Run took place on September 12, 2020. The Ram Run is a 5k and onemile run that has been part of the Hastings Campus culture for 38 years.

The 30th Annual Central Community College Foundation Pro-Am took place on September 14, 2020, at Lochland Country Club in Hastings.

Alumni Weekend

The first Central Community College Alumni Weekend took place May 13-15 at the Hastings Campus.

Ribbon Cuttings

March 26: CCC-Grand Island Center for Health and Technical Sciences

February 18: CCC-Hastings Hamilton Building

Alumni Spotlight

Alumni Special Notices

Engagements, weddings and in remembrance

Help create a foundation for life

Your support is critical to helping students complete their journey and go on to fill in-demand jobs throughout our 25 county service area. Make your gift today!