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From the President's Desk

President's Seal

CCBC President, Sandra L. Kurtinitis, Ph.D, shares her thoughts, viewpoints and noteworthy news about our college and topics relevant to the world of community colleges.

Recent Blogs

Celebration of Juneteenth: Advancing Freedom Through Education

Honoring Juneteenth through the transformative power of education.

Photo of Dr. Kirtinitis at commencement.

Commencement 2026: More than a ceremony

Honoring the achievements, determination and bright futures of our graduates.

Community College Month

In recognition of Community College Month, President Kurtinitis reflects on the power of adaptation, access and workforce education.

Dr. Sandra Kurtinitis

A job became a career, a career became a passion, a passion became a life. How lucky am I to have served community colleges for 50 years.

More from the President

Women’s History Month

President Kurtinitis reflects on the leaders, changemakers and everyday acts of perseverance that continue to shape our communities.

Resilience in Action

As we step into a new year, President Kurtinitis offers a message of optimism, perspective and a reminder that our community moves forward together.

A Brief Season of Respite and Thankfulness

Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the people and purpose that sustain us. Amid the challenges of the year,...

Every One of Us Counts: Standing Strong Through the Shutdown

When external challenges create barriers for students, community colleges respond with action. This story highlights how institutions like CCBC...

Two Great Community Partners

When students face obstacles beyond the classroom, community partnerships can make all the difference. This year, as CCBC launched its United Way...

Keith Colston, administrative director for the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs, poses at CCBC’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day Ceremony with (l-r) Courtney Sargent, Kim Jensen, Lauren Pollak, Sandra Kurtinitis, and Joaquin Martinez.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Embracing History and Heritage

As we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we recognize the resilience, wisdom, and enduring legacy of Indigenous peoples. Their history...

Commencement 2025: Another Best Day Ever

Every commencement ceremony represents thousands of moments of support, guidance, and hard work. As we celebrate our graduates, we also celebrate...

Our Season of Celebration

May is a season of achievement in the community college world. From honors ceremonies and athletic awards to pinning ceremonies and commencement,...

National Nurses Week: The Heart of Healthcare

This National Nurses Week, we honor the extraordinary nursing faculty and students who combine compassion, knowledge, and resilience in service to...

Community College Month: Leading Together in Challenging Times

As we celebrate Community College Month, we are reminded that our greatest strength lies not only in our mission, but in one another. In times of...

Administrative Professionals: Our Everyday Champions

Behind every successful college operation is a team of dedicated administrative professionals who keep everything running smoothly. This month, we...

Women’s History Month: A Legacy of Leadership

From pioneering leaders to today’s mentors and changemakers, women in community colleges have transformed lives and strengthened communities....

A Holiday Season of Gratitude

As the holiday season begins, President Kurtinitis shares a message of gratitude, reflection and appreciation for the community college community.

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, President Kurtinitis reflects on gratitude, community and the importance of taking time to celebrate life’s...

Celebrating the Future of Work: 2024 National Apprenticeship Week

During National Apprenticeship Week, President Kurtinitis explores how work-based learning prepares students for the future workforce.

Honoring Our Veterans

As Veterans Day follows Election Day, President Kurtinitis reflects on service, citizenship and supporting those who served our nation.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Embracing History and Heritage

In observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, President Kurtinitis reflects on resilience, respect and the value of honoring diverse cultures.

Pride Month 2024: Cultivating Safe Spaces

In recognition of Pride Month, President Kurtinitis reflects on inclusion, belonging and celebrating the diversity that strengthens CCBC.

The 2024 Commencement: A Slightly Different World View

As CCBC celebrates the Class of 2024, President Kurtinitis reflects on Commencement, community and preparing future leaders.

Commemorating Juneteenth

President Kurtinitis reflects on progress, remembrance and the importance of fostering a more equitable future.

Emeritus Professionals: A Legacy of Wisdom

As the academic year concludes, President Kurtinitis honors retiring colleagues whose dedication helped shape CCBC and its students.

Angels in comfortable shoes

During National Nurses Week, President Kurtinitis honors the nurses, students and educators who strengthen healthcare in our communities.

National Nurses Week: Honoring Our Heroes of the Heart

During National Nurses Week, President Kurtinitis recognizes the dedication of nurses, nursing students and the faculty who prepare them.

Sustainability is a source of pride

President Kurtinitis reaffirms CCBC’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship during Earth Week.

Administrative Professionals: The Glue that Binds Us

In recognition of Administrative Professionals Day, President Kurtinitis celebrates the dedicated staff who help keep CCBC running smoothly.

Earth Week: Pathways to a greener tomorrow

As Earth Week is celebrated worldwide, President Kurtinitis reflects on CCBC’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and environmental...

Strength in Solidarity: Confronting the Key Bridge Collapse

Following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, President Kurtinitis shares how CCBC is supporting the region’s recovery and resilience.

Community College Journals Reflect a Community of Scholars

President Kurtinitis highlights the scholarship, innovation and teaching excellence shaping community college classrooms nationwide.

Women’s History Month: Leaders in Higher Education

Drawing on decades of leadership, President Kurtinitis reflects on Women’s History Month and the women who continue to shape community colleges.

“High Impact Practices” earns high praise

Celebrating a national achievement, President Kurtinitis highlights CCBC’s Bellwether Award-winning innovation in student success.

Nurturing Entrepreneurs Beyond the Classroom

President Kurtinitis highlights how CCBC supports local entrepreneurs through innovation, small business development and community partnerships.

Celebrating Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, President Kurtinitis highlights the lasting influence of African Americans in the arts.

Training our nation’s truckers

After a national spotlight on CCBC’s CDL program, President Kurtinitis reflects on workforce training and life-changing opportunities.

The risk that paid off

In a recent podcast interview, President Kurtinitis discusses CCBC’s student-centered response to the challenges of COVID-19.

Empowering Futures: The Transformative Power of Philanthropy in Community Colleges

President Kurtinitis reflects on resilience, philanthropy and the community support that helps CCBC students thrive.

The Inaugural Introduction of the New White House National Cyber Director

President Kurtinitis reflects on CCBC hosting the inaugural speech of new White House National Cyber Director Harry Coker.

Wishing You a Joyful Holiday Season

Good things happen every day at community colleges across America. This holiday season, we honor the dedication of those who open doors of...

In the Spirit of Thankfulness

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it is an opportunity to pause, reconnect, and celebrate the relationships that sustain us. As the...

Focus on the Future of Work: Celebrating Apprenticeships

America’s workforce is changing, and community colleges are helping lead the way. During National Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate how...

Paying Tribute to Veterans

Veterans Day offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served our nation. From historic...

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Dignity, Honor, Respect

Indigenous Peoples’ Day invites us to recognize the enduring contributions, resilience, and cultural richness of Native peoples. Join us as...

Mental Illness Awareness Week: Learning to Listen

Today’s students face unprecedented pressures, from financial stress to uncertainty about the future. During Mental Illness Awareness Week,...

COVID-19: Living with our new reality

The greatest lesson of the pandemic may be that isolation comes with a cost. As new COVID-19 variants emerge, we reflect on the importance of...

Remembering 9/11

Twenty-two years after September 11, 2001, the memories may be fading for some, but the lessons remain. This reflection explores how moments of...

CCBC Partners with Comcast to Bridge the Digital Divide

When strong community partners come together, lives change. Discover how a unique collaboration between CCBC, Comcast, and Baltimore County is...

Supporting Our People to Support Our Students

At CCBC, supporting students begins with supporting employees. Learn how investments in compensation, professional growth, workplace flexibility,...

A New Academic Year: “An Extraordinary Time for Transformation”

A new academic year brings fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and bold possibilities. Discover how CCBC is embracing "An Extraordinary Time...

Breaking the Student Debt Cycle: One Student; Two Institutions; One Experience

As higher education faces growing affordability challenges, community colleges are emerging as powerful engines of opportunity. In our next blog...

Dual Enrollment: Earning College Credit in High School

Imagine graduating from high school with a college degree already in hand. Through dual enrollment partnerships, students are doing exactly...

Community colleges bring equity to higher education

As higher education responds to changing legal and policy landscapes, community colleges continue to stand as gateways to opportunity for all...

Celebrating Juneteenth

Juneteenth is both a celebration and a call to reflection. As we honor the end of slavery in the United States, we recognize the resilience of...

CCBC commemorates the Class of 2023

Every commencement represents countless hours of dedication from students, faculty, and staff alike. As we celebrate this year’s graduates,...

CCBC celebrates student success

May is a season of celebration in the community college world. From academic honors and leadership awards to athletic achievements and healthcare...

Emerging from the pandemic

The pandemic challenged community colleges in unprecedented ways, but it also created an opportunity for transformation. As we move forward, our...

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season

As the year comes to a close, President Kurtinitis shares a holiday message of gratitude, hope and appreciation for the CCBC community.

A month of joy and tragedy

Following a tragic act of violence, President Kurtinitis reflects on inclusion, safety and supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Have a joyful and fulfilling Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, President Kurtinitis shares a message of gratitude, renewal and appreciation for family, friends and community.

Honoring our veterans

As Election Day and Veterans Day converge, President Kurtinitis reflects on service, citizenship and the freedoms that unite us.

Indigenous Peoples Day: Dignity, Honor, Respect

In observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, President Kurtinitis reflects on history, inclusion and the importance of honoring diverse cultures.

Recalling lessons learned from national tragedies

Reflecting on September 11 and the pandemic, President Kurtinitis explores resilience, gratitude and the enduring strength of community.

Retention in Focus . . . “Leading with Equity”

President Kurtinitis outlines CCBC’s renewed commitment to student success, retention and equitable support for every learner.

Take a commercial break

President Kurtinitis highlights how CCBC’s latest commercials showcase the opportunities and futures waiting for students.

Forecasting from the pandemic

Looking toward the future, President Kurtinitis reflects on resilience, opportunity and CCBC’s vision beyond the pandemic.

Politically correct nicety . . . or a lens for a solution

President Kurtinitis reflects on social justice, civil discourse and the role community colleges play in fostering belonging and opportunity.

When a bachelor’s degree is no longer required

Looking beyond the pandemic, President Kurtinitis explores how community colleges are preparing students for the future of work.

Honoring Juneteenth

In observance of Juneteenth, President Kurtinitis reflects on history, education and the importance of expanding opportunity for all.

Congratulations to our graduates

As Commencement returns in person, President Kurtinitis celebrates the achievements and bright futures of CCBC graduates.

Celebrating Black History Month

President Kurtinitis reflects on diversity, equity and inclusion while highlighting CCBC’s commitment to fostering opportunity for all.

The reality of COVID-19

As COVID-19 continued to evolve, President Kurtinitis reflects on CCBC’s efforts to keep campuses safe, open and accessible.

A time of joy, renewal and optimism – Happy Holidays!

As the year comes to a close, President Kurtinitis reflects on resilience, community and hope for the year ahead.

A thoughtful and thankful Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, President Kurtinitis shares a message of gratitude, reflection and appreciation for family and community.

Honoring our veterans

In recognition of Veterans Day, President Kurtinitis reflects on service, sacrifice and CCBC’s commitment to supporting veterans.

Supporting male students of color

President Kurtinitis highlights CCBC’s commitment to equity through renewed support for the Male Student Success Initiative.

Diversity: more than a buzz word

President Kurtinitis highlights CCBC’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and creating opportunities for every member of the college community.

Rethink, Re-envision, Reaffirm

As a new academic year begins, President Kurtinitis reflects on resilience, renewal and CCBC’s commitment to student success.

Commemorating 9/11

On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, President Kurtinitis reflects on resilience, remembrance and the strength of community in difficult times.

Congratulations Class of 2021

Celebrating the Class of 2021, President Kurtinitis reflects on perseverance, achievement and the promise of new beginnings.

Holiday greetings

Despite the challenges of 2020, the spirit of the CCBC community has never been stronger. Discover a heartfelt holiday message celebrating the...

Applauding tutors

From mastering difficult concepts to navigating online learning, CCBC tutors help students overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Learn how...

Commemorating 9/11

As we commemorate the anniversary of September 11, we are reminded that the strength of our nation is measured not by the challenges we face, but...

Charting a path to our next normal

As CCBC continues to navigate the challenges of COVID-19, President Kurtinitis shares insights into the college’s progress, future plans, and...

A Time for Reflection; A Time for Action

In the wake of national conversations about racial injustice, CCBC reaffirms its commitment to equity, inclusion, and meaningful action. Read about...

Celebrating the Class of 2020

Commencement is more than a ceremony—it is a celebration of student achievement and the dedication of the entire CCBC community. Learn how we...

Keeping isolated students in school

Remote learning has created new obstacles for many community college students. In this post, President Kurtinitis highlights the challenges...

Testing our resolve

When the pandemic transformed higher education overnight, CCBC rose to the challenge. In this blog, President Williams reflects on the...

Happy holidays!

As the semester concludes, President Kurtinitis shares a holiday message celebrating joy, reflection and the CCBC community.

Inspiring a generation

President Kurtinitis highlights CCBC’s Civics and Law Academy and the importance of civic engagement, justice and public service.

I am hooked

President Kurtinitis shares her passion for community colleges during a recent conversation about CCBC’s mission and impact.

The “Promises” keep coming

Highlighting the power of partnership, President Kurtinitis celebrates how the College Promise Scholarship is expanding access to higher education.

Topping it off!

President Kurtinitis celebrates a major milestone in the construction of CCBC’s future Carol Diane Eustis Center for Health Professions.

Commencement is our affirmation

Celebrating a record graduating class, President Kurtinitis reflects on the impact of Commencement and student achievement.

College Promise is an investment in communities

President Kurtinitis highlights how College Promise programs are expanding access to affordable higher education for future students.

Honoring longevity

President Kurtinitis honors CCBC’s emeritus inductees and celebrates the faculty and staff who have shaped generations of students.

Celebrating students

Celebrating academic excellence, President Kurtinitis reflects on the achievements of CCBC students recognized at the Student Awards Banquet.

Actions influence change

President Kurtinitis reflects on equity, inclusion and the actions CCBC is taking to foster opportunity and belonging for all.

Lifting Every Student

President Kurtinitis reflects on diversity, equity and inclusion as essential to the community college mission and student success.

Keeping it green

President Kurtinitis highlights CCBC’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship during Earth Month.

Women making history

President Kurtinitis reflects on a powerful lecture that honored both Black History Month and Women’s History Month.

Leaving a Legacy

A new chapter is beginning at CCBC Essex with the construction of the Carol D. Eustis Center for Health Professions. Learn how this...

Caps off to our grads!

Despite threatening skies, the Class of 2018 shined brightly at CCBC’s Commencement ceremony. Read about an inspiring celebration of...

An Educational Calling (featured in I-95 Business magazine)

After 50 years in community college education, President Kurtinitis reflects on a career dedicated to expanding opportunity and transforming lives....

CCBC mourns the loss of our County Executive

CCBC remembers County Executive Kevin Kamenetz—a champion for education, workforce development, and the future of Baltimore County. Read...

The making of a “promise”

A visit from the National College Promise Campaign put CCBC and Baltimore County's Promise initiative in the national spotlight. Read about...

Holiday greetings: A brilliant year of celebrations come to a close

As CCBC's 60th anniversary year comes to a close, we reflect on the students, employees, alumni, volunteers, and supporters who have shaped...

When “just say no” is not enough

The opioid crisis demands action from all sectors of society. Read how CCBC is going beyond legislative requirements to educate students, prepare...

Thanksgiving: A time to be both thoughtful and thankful

Thanksgiving is a time to appreciate both our individual blessings and the communities that support us. Discover why the CCBC family remains a...

Fundraising victory: Successful end of New Beginnings Campaign

Behind every scholarship, enhanced program, and improved learning space is a community that believes in student success. Read how supporters came...

No room for bigotry and hate

CCBC's commitment extends beyond teaching skills and preparing students for careers. Learn how our diverse college community helps cultivate...

10,000 Small Businesses

When national leaders, philanthropists, and policymakers gathered to launch a transformative business initiative in Baltimore, CCBC earned a seat...