Press Releases

MCC student entrepreneurs have opportunity to access startup
funding this spring through NACCE grant

OMAHA, Nebraska (Dec. 13, 2024) — The Metropolitan Community College Business Division received a $5,000 grant awarded by the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) that will support the College’s small business development offerings. Through the NACCE Everyday Entrepreneur Program and Fund, MCC students enrolled in the College’s entrepreneurship certification program will have the opportunity to pitch their business concept at the end of the spring quarter. The student with the winning presentation will be awarded seed funding made possible through the grant to support the launch of their small business.  

Marla Ashe, MCC Dean of Business who holds a doctorate of Business Administration, shared her enthusiasm for the first-time award from NACCE, emphasizing its vital role in supporting MCC student entrepreneurs. The MCC Entrepreneurship program curriculum is revamped for the 2025 spring quarter with an interdisciplinary focus. Students enrolled MCC Skilled Trades and Technical Sciences, Arts and Information Technology programs interested in starting their own business in their technical field can enroll in the College’s 10-week program to earn an Entrepreneurship Generalist Certificate of Achievement to develop the relevant business skills to start successful companies.

In addition to access to critical early-stage funding, the business pitch competition provides students with real-world experience presenting their ideas to potential investors, Ashe noted. Supporting entrepreneurship is vital for communities, particularly in Nebraska. According to data from the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy in 2022, greater than 99% of all businesses in the state are small businesses, which account for 48% of total employment in Nebraska. Notably, the construction industry is the state’s largest small business employer.

“When small businesses succeed, our communities succeed. This funding from NACCE brings a unique opportunity and valuable educational experience to MCC student entrepreneurs,” said Ashe, who joined MCC in 2024. “We’re grateful for NACCE’s support and excited to offer a small business development program that aligns with MCC academic focus areas that are hotbeds for entrepreneurship.”  

Rebecca Corbin, NACCE president and CEO, said community colleges play an important role in the economic development of the communities they serve.

“NACCE is proud to recognize Metropolitan Community College and the MCC Business Division for their commitment to developing and expanding the Everyday Entrepreneur (EE) program,” Corbin said. “Thanks to the generosity of EE’s founders, NACCE is able to make investments in colleges across the country that are transforming communities by fostering prosperity through the creation of scalable businesses. Many of these enterprises are rooted in Main Street and skilled trades, contributing to vibrant, sustainable local economies.”

The MCC Entrepreneurship program curriculum that will roll out during the spring quarter is designed to guide beginning entrepreneurs through the start-up, pre-growth and $250,000 revenue stages of their business. Students who successfully complete the program earn an Entrepreneurship Generalist Certificate of Achievement, as well as Entrepreneur Specialist and Business Start-Up career certificates.

Visit mccneb.edu/Business for more information on MCC Business Division programs offerings.
 

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About Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.  

About NACCE
NACCE is an organization of educators, administrators, presidents, and entrepreneurs focused on igniting entrepreneurship in their communities and on their campuses. NACCE has two main goals: to empower the college to approach the business of running a community college with an entrepreneurial mindset; and to grow the community college’s role in supporting job creation and entrepreneurs in their local ecosystem. The association represents 330+ community and technical colleges and 2,000 faculty, staff, administrators, and presidents who serve more than 3.3 million students. Visit: www.nacce.com.
 

Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation awards MCC $50,000 grant

Metropolitan Community College is the recipient of a generous $50,000 grant award from the Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation. The grant will go toward helping Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology programs at the College. This will continue to provide resources and support early access for high school students interested in the trades.

“This generous grant will go directly to students, helping them earn a degree in a career field that is in high demand,” said Scott Broady, dean of Skilled Trades and Technical Sciences. “This grant helps further the College’s mission by removing barriers to education and giving students valuable opportunities.”

About the Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation
The Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation is the charitable division of the Nebraska New Car and Truck Dealers Association. The foundation was formed in 1984 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, capable of receiving tax deductible contributions to provide the funding for charitable and educational activities to enhance the automotive industry in Nebraska.

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Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.

Annual powwow returns to Fort Omaha Sept. 21

 OMAHA, Neb. — Metropolitan Community College will host the 33rd annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow on Saturday, Sept. 21, 1-7:30 p.m. on the Parade Ground of the historic Fort Omaha Campus, 30^th and Fort streets. The powwow celebrates Native American cultures with traditional dances, music, artistry, oral history, crafts and foods of regional tribes. 
 
This year’s theme is “One Heartbeat, Many Nations.” Powwow staff members are traditional artists who are leading Native American communities into the future. Fontenelle Forest Raptor Recovery Program will offer opportunities to see hawks and learn about raptors. Steven Tamayo, Sicangu Lakota, founder of Bluebird Cultural Initiative, will host a study circle on traditional games. 
 
This year’s master of ceremonies is Taylor Cheii Begay, Diné, with Samuel J. Grant, Umónhon, serving as arena director. Cory Four Killer, Omaha/Lakota Tribe, will serve as head man dancer while April Godfrey, Isanti Dakota, will serve as head lady dancer. The event also features a princess contest, with Summer Barea, Omaha Nation, serving as head judge. Maza Kute, Santee, Nebraska, will be host northern drum while Young Bucks, Sioux City, Iowa, will serve as the host southern drum.
 
Visit mccneb.edu/Powwow for additional details.
 
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating. Coolers are welcome. No alcohol or smoking is permitted.
 
The 33^rd annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow is made possible with the support of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment, BNSF Railway Foundation and the Whitmore Charitable Trust. For more information, call 531-MCC-2253.
  Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest post-secondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.

MCC offers drone training courses for emergency first responders

Over the past few weeks, more than 40 first responders in Metropolitan Community College’s four-county service area and beyond have learned how to integrate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), better known as drones, into their work. Members of area police, fire and sheriff’s departments took classes on the MCC Fort Omaha campus to learn the rules, regulations and skills to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in national airspace. 

The FAA requires all UAS pilots to be certified to use drones, whether for commercial or personal use. Two-day courses taught by FAA-certified instructors will continue this fall at the MCC IT Express — Ashton location. The courses are designed to equip first responders with the training to use drones in accident investigations, search-and-rescue tasks and applications for a wide range of other emergency situations.

At the conclusion of course, participants will be prepared to take the FAA UAS 107 test to become a certified 107-compliant pilot.

“It’s a hands-on class with open flying time built in that helps first responders get comfortable using this innovative technology to aid them in the critical work they do for our communities,” said Todd Hansen, MCC associate vice president for Workforce Education.

Registration is open for courses that begin Oct. 16, Nov. 18 and Dec. 18. Past participants have included emergency responders from the following agencies:

• Blair Police Department
• Buffalo County Sheriff
• Dakota County Sheriff
• Douglas County Sheriff
• Fremont Fire Department
• Omaha Fire Department
• Omaha Police Department
• Polk County Sheriff
• Platte County Sheriff
• Washington County Sheriff

For more information about the training or to register, contact Stacia Payne at slpayne1@mccneb.edu or 531-MCC-2522. About Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.

Summer exhibition opens at the MCC Gallery of Art & Design

The MCC Gallery of Art & Design opens its summer exhibition on Monday, July 8. “Good on Paper – Works by Karen Kunc & Hannah Demma” features the work of Lincoln -based artists, Karen Kunc and Hannah Demma. Kunc and Demma served as jurors for the 2024 MCC Student Art Exhibition. 
 
Kunc’s innovative approach to woodcut printmaking results in mesmerizing color combinations and complex layers featuring nature-based and lyrical abstraction. Demma explores the ancient media of paper by transforming it into enthralling patterns and textures with the incorporation of other media, reductive processes and sculptural techniques.
 
The Good on Paper – Works by Karen Kunc & Hannah Demma exhibit will be on view at the Elkhorn Valley Campus through Aug. 15. Kunc and Demma will attend the closing reception for the exhibit at the gallery on Aug. 15, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
 
Visit mccneb.edu/Gallery for gallery information and hours. 
 
About Karen Kunc: Karen-kunc.com
About Hannah Demma: hannahdemma.com
  About MCC
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.

MCC, iFixOmaha launch DeviceConnect Omaha

Device recycling and refurbishment program puts technology into hands of people who need them for free.

A new program at Metropolitan Community College will provide the public with free, refurbished, internet-enabled devices like laptops, tablets and smartphones. DeviceConnect Omaha, developed in partnership with MCC Digital Express and iFixOmaha aims to increase digital equity in the community. Individuals can submit a request for a device and receive refurbished equipment.

When consumers upgrade their digital devices, many leave the device they are replacing sitting idle in their homes. Through DeviceConnect Omaha, devices no longer in use can be dropped off at MCC Digital Express, located in Building 10 on the Fort Omaha Campus, where certified professionals with iFixOmaha will wipe the data, refurbish the technology, divert it from the landfill and put it in the hands of someone in the community who can put it to good use.

According to estimates from the 2021 American Community Survey, nearly 1 in every 10 Nebraskans lacks internet access, and in some pockets, more than 14% of households lack connectivity. Additionally, in three areas in which MCC has campuses — North Omaha, South Omaha and Dodge County — more than 15% of the population only has a smartphone for all of their computing needs.

Jason DeWater founded iFixOmaha, which also offers at-cost device repair service to the community at Digital Express’ Reboot Central service desk. DeWater said expanding the partnership with MCC to offer a device, refurbishment and recycling program is something he is passionate about. He knows there is a great need for it and views technology as an “equalizer.” During the start of the pandemic, he provided the service for free at iFixOmaha locations and saw strong community response.

“People need these devices. We know from doing this in the past that if our community knows there is a need, people will line up to donate their laptops and tablets,” DeWater said.

DeWater said in addition to partnering with MCC to offer the first mobile device repair academy in the nation, a goal was to have a presence on the Fort Omaha Campus. Nearly 9 out of every 10 customers that come to the Digital Express location have never been served by iFixOmaha in the past.

“It’s a really unique partnership, and it makes me so proud and happy to do anything we can to help support the vision for Digital Express and get these devices to as many people in the community as possible,” DeWater said. 

To request a device, visit donate.ifixomaha.com and fill out the form to submit a request for a laptop, tablet or smartphone; iFixOmaha will work to find a repurposed device that meets the needs of the end user. A form is also available to register to repurpose device(s), which provides instructions on the intake process.

When receiving used devices, tech professionals with iFixOmaha will safely wipe all data. The company has a AAA certification from the National Association of Information Destruction, a process that ensures data destruction companies are in compliance with industry standards and government regulations around information security.

Businesses are also eligible to repurpose devices. Technology no longer supported with software updates is also accepted. Any usable parts will be harvested, and unusable parts will be recycled. Devices will be screened for quality before being issued.

Devices are provided to recipients in the order in which requests are submitted. Visit donate.ifixomaha.com for more information.

Other learning opportunities at Digital Express 

Digital Express offers free programming to the general public for people of all ages. An AARP-sponsored class from its Senior Planet series is available for anyone age 60 and up to attend. Titled “Introduction to Digital Culture,” the class teaches attendees how to use the internet to connect with others, avoid scams, identify online health resources and more.

Introduction to Digital Culture meets twice a week for each five-week session. Space is limited. The class is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Register for the next available session by calling 531-MCC-2000.

SUNDERLAND FOUNDATION, MCC
INVEST IN FIRE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

WITH ADDITION OF FOUR-STORY TRAINING TOWER

Through a grant funded by the Sunderland Foundation and Metropolitan Community College, a four-story fire science technology training tower has been added to the MCC Applied Technology Center location. Implemented for the 2024 spring quarter, the customizable, modular structure is expected to serve students and regional fire departments for the next two decades.

 The corrugated, galvanized steel, stackable training tower has an open floor plan and provides a flexible, safe space for advanced fire-rescue training activities. In addition to elevating the College’s Fire Science Technology program — the only educational institution in Nebraska to offer such a program — the infrastructure investment also aids resource-constrained regional fire departments. 

Many fire departments in the MCC four-county service area are volunteer agencies that stand to benefit from more accessible training opportunities offered by the new training tower.

“Every student, whether they’re in a high school academy or an adult learner in a working fire department, will benefit from the use of the tower because of its ability to create realistic situations firefighters would experience in the field, but in a safe, controlled environment,” said Jeffrey Strawn, MCC Fire Science Technology program director. 

The fire science training tower is a burn-free facility, which prevents exposure to carcinogens present during live firefighting. A smoke machine simulates the low visibility conditions firefighters experience in actual emergency response. From one location, the tower enables the following technical training exercises (and more) to be incorporated into the academic program, as well as the College’s advanced training workshops available to area departments:

• Advanced rappelling 
• Basic search and rescue 
• Confined space rescue 
• Forcible entry 
• Hazardous materials
• High- and low-angle rescue operations 
• Hose management • Incident command
• Ladder drills
• Roof venting
• Rope rescue
• Technical rescue
• Window entry

Strawn said students were previously able to access some of these training exercises at off-campus, community-based partner sites, which continue to serve the program. Having the full scope of training operations now available at the Applied Technology Center maximizes resources and the student’s time by providing them from a single site. 

“This building gives us the ability to do things on site that we had to either teach in theory before or leave campus to do. This helps us use the students’ time even more wisely,” Strawn said. 

On a recent tour of the new structure, Terry Barney, an MCC Fire Science Technology adjunct instructor and retired member of the Omaha Fire Department, demonstrated the flexibility of the space. With movable walls on the inside, floor plans can be changed, challenging students to rely on technique over memory. 

Performing a window rescue at the actual height it would take place on a ladder rather than simulating the technique on a shipping container at ground level is a closer representation of what a student will experience in the field. Barney said access to the tower will make MCC students more “street ready” because of the realistic training exposure it provides them.

“Whether throwing a 24- to 35-foot extension ladder or simulating the rescue of someone trapped on the second or third floor of an apartment building, being able to put students in several different training scenarios will make them better and smarter firefighters when they complete the program and go out to serve the community,” Barney said. 

MCC offers training and support to more than 20 regional fire departments, including the Omaha, Ralston, Fremont, Blair, Bennington and Gretna fire departments. The program plays a significant role in developing the first-responder workforce. Strawn said about a third of the 34-member November 2023 Omaha Fire Department recruiting class qualified by way of an MCC fire science program.

“The training tower is a huge benefit to the firefighting community because it supports the training needs of local jurisdictions well into the future. For departments serving areas like Springfield and Waterloo, putting a training tower on site would be a huge financial burden,” Strawn said.

High school students participating in the MCC Fire Science Career Academy will also use the new tower in their training exercises. Strawn said the program is grateful to have the support of the Sunderland Foundation and the MCC Board of Governors. 

“Our students are getting exposure they wouldn’t have received before that will help them get closer to a career in fire service and will strengthen the firefighter and first responder workforce,” Strawn said. 

The MCC Fire Science Technology program is recognized by the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy. Visit mccneb.edu/FIST for more information about the program.

MCC Foundation announces 2024 
Distinguished Alumni Award winner

The Metropolitan Community College Foundation is pleased to announce Demetria Geralds as the recipient of the MCC 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award. The annual recognition is given to a graduate whose achievement, service and commitment to MCC and the community is exemplary. 

Geralds is a multidisciplinary artist with experience in fashion, costume design and community cultivation. In 2018, Geralds became the first graduate of the College’s accredited Fashion Design program. She said a fond memory from her time in the Fashion program was traveling to the Garment District in New York to research and visit manufacturers that could help her scale her designs.

During her time at MCC, Geralds, a 20-year military veteran, worked in the Veterans Services Office, where she helped fellow veterans navigate post-military education.  She also was a dedicated and active member of the MCC Student Veteran’s Association. As veteran and MCC alum, Geralds continues to field questions about educational benefits and entitlements. She encourages her fellow vets to take classes — credit and noncredit — that are beyond their preferred programming to help them have a smoother transition to civilian careers. 

After graduating, Geralds quickly delved into the creative demands of fashion and costume design, setting high goals for herself and her craft. In 2023, she was credited as lead costume designer for an Emmy-winning in the Short Form Content documentary category. She also worked behind the scenes in the wardrobe department for the Tony-winning Broadway show, “Hamilton.”

Geralds remains involved in the MCC community, lending her expertise as a judge, guest panelist and mentor to support the MCC-sponsored Student Night at Omaha Fashion Week (OFW). Geralds said she is most proud of creating a scholarship from her 2017 OFW prize winnings (OFW), which provided art supplies to eligible MCC Fashion Design students. Additionally, Geralds is a regular guest speaker for the Principles of Fashion class, where she shares her insights on fashion, marketing and merchandising with MCC students. 

Geralds’ most recent ventures find her in the driver’s seat of her mobile art unit, known as the SowMobile. The SowMobile host workshops that make art, fashion and textiles accessible for all.
  

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About Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.  

MCC students excel at SkillsUSA Nebraska,
27 qualify for national competition in Atlanta

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) students had a strong showing at the SkillsUSA Nebraska Championships that wrapped up in Grand Island on Saturday. In total, 56 MCC students placed in their respective competitions, with 27 qualifying to compete at SkillsUSA Championships in Atlanta, June 25-27. The national competition features more than 6,000 of the top career and technical education students across the nation who will compete in more than 100 timed and judged competitions.

In total, 92 MCC students participated in timed individual and team competitions and were evaluated based on their performance executing competencies used in the skilled trades and technical sciences, creative arts and design, information technology, community and human services, business and health professions. More than half of MCC students medaled at the state meet.

“I am proud of how our talented students and dedicated faculty represented MCC at the event,” said Scott Broady, MCC dean of skilled trades and technical sciences. “From meeting peers who share their interests to earning scholarships for their education and networking with industry professionals, SkillsUSA is loaded with opportunities for Nebraska students.” 

Competitions took place among high school and college-aged students. In total, MCC students collected 31 gold medals, 15 silver and 10 bronze. All gold medalists in national competition events qualified to compete in Atlanta. Additionally, all MCC students who earned gold, silver or bronze medals were awarded scholarships that ranged from $1,500 to $750 and the opportunity to earn more scholarship funding at the national competition. 

Broady said MCC participated in new events at this year’s state conference, highlighting the growth of the College’s academic programs. MCC students debuted in 3D visualization and modeling, computer programming, information technology services, motorcycle service technology and power equipment technology competitions.

Broady said whether competing at SkillsUSA Nebraska for the first time or a returning national qualifier, SkillsUSA adds a lot of value to students’ time at MCC. 

“We’ll be taking a strong group back to Atlanta for nationals in June,” Broady said. “It’s a valuable experience for our students to compete against the top career and technical education students in the country while gaining important insights about their career path and developing leadership skills.” 

MCC students medaled in the following events: 

3D Visualization and Animation (college)
Gold: AJ Konecny, Eli Mohr
 
Audio/Radio Production (college)
Gold: Chad Fey, Olivia Naumann
 
Automotive Refinishing Technology (college)
Silver: Callie Nickerson
Bronze: Cole Fancher 
 
Automotive Service Technology (college)
Silver: Geoffrey Courtney
 
Carpentry (college)
Bronze: Naveh Offord

CNC Programmer (college)
Gold: Angelo Perry
Silver: Samuel Wulf
 
Collision Damage Appraisal (college)
Gold: Joseph Lytle 
Silver: Jeremy McBride

Collision Damage Appraisal (high school)
Gold: Clara Stilen
Bronze: Fernando Gonzalez

Collision Repair Technology (college)
Gold: Anne Dovali
Silver: Cody Mantonya
Bronze: Kaden Beckstrom
 
Collision Repair Technology (high school)
Gold: Cole Vanderheiden
 
Diesel Equipment Technology (college)
Bronze: Gerson Franco

Diesel Equipment Technology (high school)
Gold: Zack Carson 
Silver: Brody Coursey
 
Digital Cinema Production (college)
Gold: Kaden Andersen, Gabriel Ysusi
Silver: Mariah Abney, David Mosso
Bronze: Joshua Cryer, Brennan Hanson
 
Electrical Construction Wiring (high school)
Silver: Rhett Bergsten
Bronze: Liam Foley
 
Firefighting (college)
Gold: Winston Ruzicka

Firefighting (high school)
Gold: Jaxon Christensen
 
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (college)
Gold: Dustin Fredericks
 
Motorcycle Service Technology (college)
Gold: Blake Tarver
 
Photography (college) 
Gold: Ramses Barrios

Plumbing (high school)
Gold: Wyatt Zeleny

Power Equipment Technology (college)
Gold: Callan Scholz
 
Precision Machining Technology — state only (high school)
Gold: Brandon Gallo
Silver: Jenson Groff
Bronze: Aaron Adams

Technical Team Problem Solving — state only (high school)
Gold: Mitchel Budoff, Geoffrey Courtney, Gavin Griggs 
 
Television/Video Production (college) 
Gold: Oluwatobi Ajise, Paul Grinbergs
 
Welding (college)
Gold: Denver Fincham 
Silver: Porter Chandler
Bronze: Kamrin Kavan

Welding (high school)
Gold: Tyler Winsor

Welding Fabrication (college)
Silver: Eli Bothwell, Nicholas Kroupa, Maddie Watts 
 
Welding Fabrication (high school)
Gold: Josh Bennett, Aidan Roumph, Hunter Volcheck
 
Welding Sculpture (college)
Silver: Trevor Moody 
 
Welding Sculpture (high school)
Gold: Hannah Wieczorek

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About Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.
 
About SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA empowers its members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens. The organization improves the quality of our nation’s skilled workforce through the development of Framework skills that include personal, workplace and technical skills grounded in academics. SkillsUSA serves more than 335,000 students and instructors annually. This includes 19,500 instructors who join as professional members. Including alumni, SkillsUSA membership totals nearly 400,000. 

International Fair returns to MCC 

Metropolitan Community College’s annual International Fair will bring entertainment from around the globe to the College on Thursday, April 11, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. inside the Center for Advanced Manufacturing at the South Omaha Campus, 2909 Edward Babe Gomez Ave. The event is free and open to the public and will feature global displays, area organizations and a USCIS Naturalization Ceremony, which will take place from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

The event is aimed toward giving attendees of all ages the opportunity to learn about different cultures. To begin the day, the USCIS Naturalization Ceremony will welcome new U.S. citizens. Musicians, dancers and performers will then take center stage throughout the day, blending cultures and ethnic backgrounds.

The International Fair is presented with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

For more information, visit mccneb.edu/I-Fair.

Metropolitan Community College Celebrates 50^th Anniversary 

Metropolitan Community College is celebrating 50 years of providing exceptional community education. In honor of this milestone, MCC invites friends, alumni and supporters to join us at the 50th Anniversary Gala on March 9.

Since its inception in 1974, Metropolitan Community College has been a cornerstone of academic excellence, fostering a vibrant and diverse community of learners, educators and innovators. Over the past five decades, MCC has played a pivotal role in shaping the futures of countless individuals, contributing to the educational and economic growth of the region.

“As we celebrate our 50th year, Metropolitan Community College has an opportunity to reflect on what this institution means for those we serve,” said Randy Schmailzl, MCC president. “Although we have grown remarkably and the tools of our trade have changed greatly over the years, our mission of providing affordable, accessible and relevant education remains constant. The next 50 years will surely bring similar changes. It is good to know MCC will be there, helping our students and communities adapt and grow together.”

To commemorate this significant achievement, MCC is hosting a 50th Anniversary Gala on March 9 at the MCC Fort Omaha Campus. The evening promises to be a memorable affair, featuring a dinner, entertainment, live and silent auctions and a walk down memory lane to reflect on the incredible journey of MCC over the last 50 years.

Individuals interested in attending the 50th Anniversary Gala can go to onecau.se/mcc50to purchase tickets, donate or participate in the silent auction. The attire for this event is semi-formal, and tickets start at $150. For sponsorship opportunities or more information, please contact the MCC Foundation at 531-MCC-2346.

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of Metropolitan Community College's commitment to education, community and excellence.

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About MCC
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.

Holland Foundation makes historic investment in MCC students
$3 million endowed scholarship is largest ever in the College’s history

Metropolitan Community College received its largest-ever endowed scholarship from the Holland Foundation. The Dick and Mary Holland Scholarship, a $3 million scholarship program, will create pathways to postsecondary education in MCC skilled trades, health and technical science programs for students residing in the College’s four-county service area. Scholarships will be awarded beginning in the 2024-25 academic year.

Amy Recker, executive director of the Metropolitan Community College Foundation, said the Dick and Mary Holland Scholarship is anticipated to provide a minimum of 24 scholarships annually and prioritizes first-generation students in their postsecondary education at MCC, from high school dual credit through completion of eligible credit programs.

Deb Love, president of the Holland Foundation, said the historic gift reflects the importance the Holland family places on supporting public education at all levels.

“Dick and Mary felt a great sense of duty to make impact in the lives of students through philanthropy and saw scholarships as a great way to fulfill that mission,” Love said. “The trades, health and technical sciences are so important and in need of qualified workers. These programs offer students an opportunity to further their education, leading them into high-skill and high-wage jobs in the workforce.”   

In addition to tuition, the endowed scholarship can provide funding for fees, books and required certifications, as well associated tools, equipment and/or supplies. Financial need will be considered but is not required. Applicants with a cumulative 2.0 grade-point average at the time of application will be prioritized for aid.

“The Dick and Mary Holland Scholarship is a truly transformational gift to MCC and students in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge and Washington counties,” Recker said. “MCC is extremely grateful to the Holland Foundation for entrusting the College with this unprecedented investment in our students, programs and communities.”

The Dick and Mary Holland Scholarship is part of a series of gifts the Holland Foundation has recently made to area educational institutions. Love said in addition receiving the education and training students need to land quality jobs, the endowment provides a lasting way for future generations to understand and be inspired by Dick and Mary Holland’s desire to address the needs of the community’s most vulnerable through the arts, education and children’s causes.

“The endowed scholarship continues Dick and Mary’s legacy of giving. They were such observant, giving and caring people who always had a willingness in their hearts to help others,” Love said.

Visit mccneb.edu/Scholarships for more information or call 531-MCC-2400.     

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About MCC
Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.