MCCC Breaks $50,000 Student Emergency Fundraising Goal
07/07/20
WEST WINDSOR, NJ – On Monday, July 6, Mercer County Community College announced it had surpassed the $50,000 goal for its Student Emergency Fund (SEF).
Fundraising began in April after the college determined many of its students were struggling, both to continue their education virtually, as well as to finish the spring 2020 semester and graduate. In April, the college launched a student survey to identify which needs were most pressing.
The poll found that more than a third reported a lack of technology resources, one-fifth said they could use help making social connections, and a whopping 60 percent expressed concern with finances, including the financial resources to obtain food.
Mercer responded by starting initiatives with many of its local partners. Through TDI Connect, part of United Way of Greater Mercer County, MCCC gave out refurbished computers. Last month the college held a food and clothing drive, providing community sourced donations to more than 400 needy individuals and families in the greater Trenton area.
Most recently, on July 1, MCCC hosted its first-ever virtual job fair, which provided resume updating, interviewing and other skill building workshops to help jobseekers find employment.
Money raised by the SEF supported students by paying the remainder of their tuition bills for the spring and summer semesters. The fund also helped clear any balances preventing students from earning their degrees.
“This global health crisis has hit all of us hard, particularly our students who faced substantial challenges even before the pandemic,” said MCCC President Dr. Jianping Wang. “We felt it was our responsibility to identify areas of concern, and address needs wherever possible. We are a family, and that’s what families do – help each other in their time of need.”
Established in 1966, Mercer County Community College (MCCC) is a publicly supported comprehensive educational institution that provides opportunities for higher education through an open-door admission policy. MCCC is home to 70 associate degree programs and numerous credit and noncredit certificate programs. The college also offers many educational experiences, leadership opportunities and the chance to interact with other students and faculty/staff members in an informal setting.
More than 40 clubs offer students the opportunity to explore special interests. Many of these clubs are directly affiliated with fields of study and augment classroom experiences.
In addition, art exhibits, dance productions, dramatic presentations, musical productions, and performances by guest artists are sponsored throughout the year. Music organizations include the college chorus, jazz band, symphonic band, dance ensemble, and stage band.
For more information about student life, visit: https://www.mccc.edu/student_services_clubs.shtml
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