Genesee County student enrollment climbs to 33,766
(Flint, Michigan—October 27, 2010) The total enrollment number of students pursuing a college degree in Genesee County was the focus of the October 27 morning news conference at the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. Leaders from Baker College of Flint, Baker College Center for Graduate Studies, Kettering University, Mott Community College and University of Michigan-Flint joined City of Flint Mayor Dayne Walling, and Tim Herman, Regional Chamber CEO, to acknowledge the 33,766 plus students enrolled in area colleges and universities.
“The Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce is a strong advocate for higher education and continuous, lifelong learning,” said Tim Herman, Regional Chamber CEO. “These exceptional institutions attracting young minds is another great example of partners working together to rebuild Genesee County.”
This high student enrollment count is a proof that Genesee County is on its way to become a learning community. Jobs of the future will be knowledge based, and the continued growth and interest in further education better positions Genesee County and students for advancement.
The over 33,000 students matriculating in Genesee County colleges and universities also provides a tremendous marketing opportunity for local businesses. Businesses will be able to highlight Flint as a College Town in their promotional materials, as well as utilize the student population for internships and future employment.
The total enrollment numbers for the fall 2010 semester is attributed not only to the variety of educational courses offered at each institution, but the schedules designed to help meet the demands of working students and individuals furthering their education.
“Baker College’s career-oriented mission and proven ability to deliver relevant, affordable, high quality education and training meet the needs of traditional and non-traditional learners and also ensure that employers have ready access to a well-prepared work force,” noted Dr. Julianne Princinsky, President, Baker College of Flint and Chairperson for the Regional Chamber Operating Board of Directors. “The outstanding student pass rates on certification and licensing exams, a 97.9% or better available graduate employment rate, and the College’s community investments further demonstrate Baker’s commitment to solutions that work.”
Kettering University President, Dr. Stan Liberty, reported that Kettering is focusing on engaging its students in the community – both philanthropically and entrepreneurially – thus maximizing the institution’s impact on regional socio-economic development. “Kettering’s students and faculty represent a significant source of local intellectual capital which, together with Kettering’s excellent laboratories, are key assets of our `College Town’,” he said.
With their numerous classes plus partnerships with satellite schools like Cleary University, Mott Community College thrives for the 2010 fall semester, according to Mott Community College President Dr. Richard Shaink. “Mott College has reached the highest enrollment in its 87-year history,” he said. “Along with this service to our community, MCC is also taking a lead on area economic development by offering support to area businesses, essential to creating new local jobs.”
The University of Michigan-Flint, known as one of the fastest growing public university in the state, achieved yet another year of record-setting, historical growth. “Having one of the campuses of the University of Michigan in the heart of downtown Flint is an important factor in the education of tomorrow’s workforce,” said Chancellor Ruth J. Person. “People in this community are committed to pursuing their degrees locally, helping to make Genesee County a global leader in higher education opportunities.”
Also, contributing to the 33,000 plus enrollment number is the additional student body count from Cleary University, Davenport University, Ferris State University, Spring Arbor University and ITT Technical Institute.
The Regional Chamber has maintained a close relationship and partnership with educational institutions in Genesee County, understanding that the students enrolled are the future of our community and state. “I am delighted to see the collaboration and partnerships evolve to better enhance our community and the economic climate of the Genesee County area,” added Herman.
For more information, contact:
Gerald McCarty II
(810) 766-4206
Baker College of Flint
Pat Mroczek
(810) 762-9533
Kettering University
Michael Kelly
(810) 762-0456
Mott Community College
Jennifer Hogan
(810) 237-6570
University of Michigan-Flint