CCBC receives $10,000 grant from First Financial Federal Credit Union to support Women in Education initiative
May 23, 2023 | by Hope H. Davis | 443.840.5053 (office) | 410.971.5560 (cell)
The Community College of Baltimore County recently received a $10,000 grant from First Financial Federal Credit Union to support the college’s Women in Education initiative. Funding will go toward developing a formal mentorship structure that targets female students, particularly women of color. Monica Walker, CCBC dean for the School of Writing, Literacy and Language and Interim Dean Adrianne Washington, Special Academic Programs, are leading this initiative.Studies have shown that first-generation, students of color who live in under-resourced communities often lack access to role models who can guide them successfully in their decision-making regarding college. Mentoring has proven to be an effective strategy in creating a culture of inclusion and a sense of belonging that contributes to making the college experience more satisfying and impactful. Mentoring has also proven to assist with college retention.
“It is wonderful to have a community partner like First Financial Federal Credit Union who is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and realizes the value in our Women in Education initiative,” said Dean Walker.
Interim Dean Washington added, “Sixty percent of our student population is female with nearly the same percentage being women of color. Starting a mentoring program will allow us to connect with female students in meaningful ways, sharing knowledge and experiences that can help them navigate college and life.”
Through the Women in Education initiative, students will be paired with a faculty member and a workforce professional during their time at CCBC. Faculty advisors will be the main point of contact and assist by identifying student needs and connecting them to campus-based resources. Professional development and leadership programming will also be offered to connect students with their career interests.
"Being able to be a part of the Women in Education initiative with our historic partner, CCBC, is truly an honor for First Financial Federal Credit Union," stated John Clingerman, FFFCU Relationship Marketing Manager. "First Financial looks forward to watching the students who participate in the educational program grow into great leaders and prosper in their future career endeavors.”
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About the Community College of Baltimore County (www.ccbcmd.edu)
Since 1957, CCBC has opened the doors to accessible, affordable, high-quality education empowering generations of area residents to transform their lives and the lives of others. Each year, nearly 50,000 students enroll at the college’s main campuses, extension centers and online to make their starts, earn degrees, launch and build careers. CCBC offers the region’s most expansive selection of degree, certificate and workplace certification programs that prepare students for transfer, job entry and career advancement in such industries as business, education, health care, information technology, cybersecurity, construction, and transportation. Designated as the “Best Community College” among the Maryland Daily Record’s 2022 Reader Rankings, CCBC is also nationally recognized as a leader in innovative learning strategies and among the nation’s top associate degree producers.
