MILES CITY, MONTANA: During last night’s State of the State address in Helena, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte spoke of achievable goals and long-term plans while in office, as well as measurable successes seen throughout his term. Among those successes, and as a kickoff to other education-focused legislative goals, was the work of Miles Community College (MCC).
Gianforte praised the college for bringing innovation to education, especially in the post-secondary education realm.
“We need fresh, new thinking and bold leaders to deliver the best education possible for our kids,” stated Governor Gianforte during his address. “Miles Community College is equipping Montanans with the skills they need to thrive in good-paying, in-demand careers, from truck drivers to meat cutters to certified nursing assistants.”
“We are thrilled that the Governor chose to highlight MCC and the great work being accomplished by our faculty and staff,” commented MCC President Ron Slinger, who attended the speech in person, along with MCC Board of Trustees Chair Jamie Ogolin. “Our Trustees have set a clear vision that we are working hard at every day to put into practice.”
“Miles Community College is breaking the traditional mold,” Gianforte continued. “They're transforming how education is delivered. They're thinking outside the box, not confining themselves or their students to the limits of their college’s brick-and-mortar, and under Ron's leadership, they're delivering results.”
“Our goal is clear,” stated President Slinger. “We want to empower every Montanan to create the future that best suits them.”
The Governor spoke on the importance of building relationships with other businesses. “The college (MCC) has also developed partnerships with the private sector, including Stockman Bank and Sidney Health Center to create business-specific, micro-credentials,” he said, referring to MCC’s Workforce Solutions program, which aims at providing industry-specific skills for the employees of area businesses.
Governor Gianforte also highlighted the recent enrollment success seen at the college, thanks in part to the innovative programs mentioned. MCC saw a 7.9% increase in headcount and a 6.6% Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) enrollment increase last fall and is on trend to match those rates this spring.
Toward the end of his speech honoring the work of the college, the governor challenged educational leaders at every college, university, and school district in the state to follow suit. He encouraged them to be innovative and transformative, to develop partnerships with the private sector, and to improve educational opportunities for all Montana students.
“It is truly an honor to have Governor Gianforte’s support,” said President Slinger.
To view the State of the State address, click here. (MCC highlight begins at 19:26:32.)
