Garden City Community College and Newman University Announce New Partnership
[Garden City, KS] July 19, 2023 -- Garden City Community College and Newman University have announced a new partnership for area students. Through the partnership, students can complete their Associate degree from GCCC and their Bachelor's degree from Newman without leaving Garden City.
The initiative will launch in Fall 2023 and offer degree completion in business administration and agribusiness. Additional degree programs will be added to this partnership in the future. Students may start or finish their associate degree at GCCC and then take in-person classes through the new Newman location in Garden City.
GCCC President Dr. Ryan Ruda expressed the importance of this collaboration. "This partnership is vital for retaining talent in Southwest Kansas and the region. Through a review of data and conversations with our students, it became imperative that we find solutions to bring four-year degree completion opportunities in a face-to-face format. This collaboration with Newman University brings strong programs that enhance access and affordability while retaining talent in our local communities," Dr. Ruda said. He continued, "We are enthusiastic about this partnership given Newman's proven track record in Garden City with its education program and a strong commitment to students' financial assistance. Garden City Community College remains committed to meeting educational needs and our mission of producing positive contributors to society, which aligns closely with the mission of Newman University."
Newman President Kathleen S. Jagger believes the partnership will have an impact for the region. "We are thrilled to share the news of our extraordinary partnership with Garden City Community College that reflects the extent to which our respective missions align. We firmly believe that education is a catalyst for growth and community vibrancy, and that our graduates will be positive change agents. Our expanded range of programs in Southwest Kansas aims to bridge a significant gap in higher education options, enabling students to earn a bachelor's degree in business, education and soon in nursing ... while remaining in their hometowns," Jagger said.
Newman Vice President for Academic Affairs Alden Stout added, "This joint effort allows students to remain at home, maintain connections within their communities and gain the necessary knowledge and experience to succeed in their chosen fields. Through our partnership with Garden City Community College, students who complete their associate degree and enroll with Newman will receive a $20,000 scholarship and are eligible for further need-based aid. We believe this collaboration represents the fulfillment of our shared vision of a region that thrives through accessible and comprehensive education, thereby transforming lives and nurturing future leaders."
In addition to a $20,000 annual scholarship, Garden City Community College graduates who receive federal Pell or state grants are eligible for the Newman Match Grant which provides additional aid to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for students.
For more information, visit the GCCC website , the Newman website, or contact Webstert@newmanu.edu or 620-227-9616.
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About Newman University
Newman University is a Catholic university named for St. John Henry Newman and founded by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ for the purpose of empowering graduates to transform society. Newman meets the needs of traditional first-time students, transfers, returning adults, and graduate students.
Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.