Even in tough economic times, two-year colleges are a sound investment

By Times Staff, Published March 8, 2011

As states and localities that help to fund community colleges look to trim their budgets, two-year college advocates note that officials should take a closer look at the benefits of their colleges-both in terms of economic and societal returns-before making cuts.

A new policy brief from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) details the return on investment in community colleges for students, businesses and communities at a time when officials are looking at how best to stretch funding. For example, two-year colleges are often the top choice for tuition-sensitive students looking to start new careers or update their skills. That is critical as workforce development experts project that employers will need to fill some 46 million jobs by 2018-and most of them will require at least some postsecondary education.

The low tuition and fees at community colleges-which average about $2,713, compared to $7,605 at public four-year institutions-also means that few two-year college students take student loans, so their education costs do not add to their personal debt, the brief noted.

"The low-cost model is important: Research has shown that cost influences postsecondary enrollment and remains a substantial barrier for low-income students," according to the brief, which was supported in part by Lumina Foundation for Education.

A strong partner

In addition to the benefits student get-which include increased earnings and reduced unemployment-the brief observed how "community colleges continually work on behalf of the residents they serve to revitalize and reshape local economies," noting that two-year colleges are well-positioned to help local businesses train needed workers. They can also serve as an incentive to attract new businesses. In Virginia, a promise a couple of years ago from Thomas Nelson Community College to produce 800 skilled technicians convinced the Canon company to build in the college's service area, bypassing prospective sites in other countries.

Funding community colleges is also a sound economic investment for communities in terms of return on investment (ROI). A 2007 study by Economic Modeling Specialists Inc. showed that the ROI of state and local funding for community colleges averages 16 percent nationally.

A growing number of colleges and college systems are commissioning their own independent studies to detail their economic and community impacts locally and regionally, which speaks more directly to local officials. Last month, Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) in Missouri released a study showing that the college contributes more than $211 million each year to its community through a combination of college operations, student spending and productivity of graduates in the workforce.

In terms of ROI, each $1 invested in OTC yields about $2 in benefits, the study said. OTC receives about $20 million annually in state appropriations and local taxes. The community OTC serves receives nearly $41 million back over the course of the careers of students-most of whom remain in their communities-in the form of increased tax revenue and avoided costs, it said.

"This study gave us an opportunity to quantify that impact on our community's economy, demonstrating in hard figures what we already knew from the stories of our students: OTC improves the careers, finances and lives of individuals, which in turn improves the community," said OTC President Hal Higdon.

Despite such benefits, community colleges are seen as underfunded. Although two-year colleges educate nearly half of all undergraduate students, they receive 27 percent of total federal, state and local revenues in higher education, according to the brief.

"Given the evidence and examples of the community college dividend provided in this brief, strong public investments in community colleges are more than justified," said Christopher Mullin, AACC's program director for policy analysis and author of the brief.

March 1, 2011
STC Financial Aid Fair
Starr County Campus

2011 Starr County Legislator Tour Focused On Education

L to R: STC Pres. Dr. Shirley Reed, SCIF Pres., Rose Benavidez, STC Chair Gary Gurwitz, Starr County Judge Eloy Vera

L to R: Representative Ryan Guillen, Starr County Judge Eloy Vera, SCIF President and STC Vice Chair Rose Benavidez

Starr County - The Rio Grande Valley Partnership's (RGVP) 2011 Legislative Visit to Starr County was coordinated by the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF) and was successful in its objective of informing the legislator's about important issues that affect our community. On Friday, January 21, the delegation arrived at the Starr County line at approximately 8:45am and proceeded to visit Colonia Las Lomas, where they witnessed firsthand the need for better infrastructure in the area. They then continued to the South Texas College Starr County Campus Auditorium, where they were greeted by County Judge Eloy Vera and a large group of local officials and community members. After being officially welcomed by Judge Vera and some comments by RGC Mayor Ruben Villarreal, the lawmakers participated in an interactive presentation by Dr. Shirley Reed, STC President, about the impact of the states' proposed budget cuts.

When approached by the RGVP about issues to focus on in Starr County it was not difficult for the SCIF to decide on education. The visit was planned with the intent of offering the legislators a glimpse of the enormous value our community places on education and to highlight the many efforts it has made for advancement in spite of often receiving minimal state and federal funding. Additionally, the group was exposed to the economic and social benefits a community college offers to society. The recently announced $28 billion dollar shortfall at the state level further emphasized the need for this group of decision makers to understand the devastating impact major reductions or eliminations would cause on Starr County. Rose Benavidez SCIF President and STC Vice Chair said, "a component of the responsibility of our organization is to ensure that the benefits and financial assistance our County receives at the state and federal level are not eliminated. Our organization knows the value of having a Community College located in our area; it is not only a tool in improving the lives of our residents, but also a major factor when approaching investors." "We understand there will be reductions, times are difficult everywhere, in this new session of cutting not spending, we just want to ensure that we keep what we are entitled to, just let us continue working," she added.

Later that day the legislators visited UTPA in Edinburg, where SCIF Chair Sam Vale participated in a roundtable discussion presented to them that focused on another issue that affects our community, border security. "We need to dedicate our efforts to ensure that legislators are educated and accurately informed about the needs and challenges of border communities, ours is a community that is connected not only by commerce, but stronger family ties," stated Vale when asked about the importance of reaching out to the legislators at the forum

The tour concluded at the STC Technology Campus on Sunday after visiting different locations in the Rio Grande Valley. For more information on the Rio Grande Valley Partnership, please visit www.valleychamber.com. For information on the Starr County Industrial Foundation please visit www.starrcounty.org, or call us at 956.487.2709.

Diana Pena retires from South Texas College

Diana Pena, STC vice president of finance and administrative services, is honored at the college's January board meeting for more than 12 years of dedicated service to the college. She will retire at the end of the month. From left front are STC Board Vice Chair Rose Benavidez, Diana Pena, STC President Shirley A. Reed, STC Board of Trustees Chair Gary Gurwitz and STC Board Member Roy De Leon. From left back are STC Board Members Dr. Alejo Salinas Jr. and Jesse Villarreal and STC Board of Trustees Secretary Oscar Longoria Jr.

Diana Pena, vice president of finance and administrative services for South Texas College, will retire from the college effective Jan. 31, 2011. Pena, a Rio Grande City native, has been with the college since 1998. She oversaw a variety of crucial services that ensure the college runs and functions on a daily basis, including maintenance, facilities, security, human resources and all financial and business functions, excluding financial aid. She managed an annual budget of more than $130M.

"Diana Pena has played an instrumental role in the success of STC during the last 12 years and has made many significant contributions to the fiscal integrity and stability of the institution," said Dr. Shirley A. Reed, STC president. "The entire institution extends its appreciation to her for her years of dedicated service and lasting contributions to making South Texas College the premier institution it is today. We share in her excitement as she embarks on a new chapter in her life. We will miss her, and will forever be grateful for her many contributions to the college."

Recently, Pena was named the 2010 Outstanding Chief Business Officer for Region IV of the Community College Business Officers Association. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence and exceptional service as chief business officers. Pena was selected as the Region IV winner, which encompasses community colleges across Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

Prior to joining STC, Pena worked for the Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District for 30 years, serving in different management positions, including five years as the assistant superintendent for business and operations.

Pena earned her bachelor's in business education from The University of Houston and her master's of education from The University of Texas-Pan American. She also earned professional mid-management administrator and superintendent certificates from UTPA.

"I want to thank Dr. Shirley Reed, the Board of Trustees and every member of the STC community for the support and friendship I have received during my time with the college," Pena expressed. "It has been so rewarding to help grow this institution to the power house it is today. I also want to thank the devoted staff from the Division of Finance and Administrative Services. They are the silent heroes that make this institution run so seamlessly. I know I have created the most efficient team possible and am leaving my division areas in the best hands."

Jose Cruz, STC vice president for information services and planning, will assume interim responsibility for administrative services in the areas of operations, bookstore, vending, facilities planning and construction, and security. A national search is currently under way for a full-time replacement for the college's vice president for finance and administrative services position.

UTPA Dedicates Starr County Center

Rio Grande City - On Wednesday, Sept. 8, UTPA was joined by local and state dignitaries, as well as representatives from its new neighbor, South Texas College (STC), in dedicating The University of Texas-Pan American at Starr County. The 17,391-square-foot facility is located on Farm-to-Market Road 3167 in Rio Grande City and is already open to serve our local residents. Pictured from left to right are Dr. Ana Maria Rodriguez, UTPA interim provost and vice president for academic affairs; Rose Benavidez, Vice-Chair South Texas College Board of Trustees; Eloy Vera, Starr County Judge; State Sen. Judith Zaffirini, TX-21st District; Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, UTPA President; State Rep. Ryan Guillen, TX-31st District; Ruben Saenz, administrator of the South Texas College Starr County campus; and Dr. Alma Perez, director of The University of Texas-Pan American at Starr County.

Javier A. Ramirez - the first recipient of the MBJr Scholarship.

Javier is scheduled to receive his Associates of Science Degree in Biology this summer and has been accepted into the STC Nursing Program for the fall 2010 semester. He is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa, International Honor Society and is on the STC Presidents Honor List. A father of two Javier has had to overcome many obstacles in his life, but has always known that education is the key that will help him prevail and triumph.

We look forward to more accomplishments from Javier and to his contributions to our community.

For information about the scholarship, please visit walkformbjr.com.

Students, Jerry the Jaguar play role in thanking board for service

Jerry the Jaguar was the featured guest at South Texas College's January Board of Trustee Meeting. He joined students, faculty and staff in extending appreciation to the board for their hard work and dedication to the college and community.

Board Chair Mike Allen, Board Vice-Chair Gary Gurwitz, Board Secretary Jesse Villarreal and members Dr. Alejo Salinas Jr., Rose Benavidez and Oscar Longoria Jr. received warms hugs from Jerry and custom-made business card holders from the college's community.

"The college is extremely lucky to have board members who are willing to go above and beyond to make our students' dreams a reality," said Dr. Shirley A. Reed, STC president. " They give so much of themselves to their positions and it's a delight to be able to honor them for their dedication. They are the ones who make the college possible and through their work, we are truly changing lives and changing communities."

The card holders are of special meaning to the trustees because two of the college's students made them. Jose Molina and Epifanio Hernandez, Edinburg High School graduates who took STC dual enrollment classes, returned to the college to continue their studies in precision manufacturing technology. The pair used their advanced machining knowledge and skills to design and produce the steel cardholders featuring the STC logo and trustee names.

"It was a very special to receive this gift from the college community," said Board Chair Mike Allen. "Each of the members has a place in our hearts for the college and we make the commitment to be trustees because we want to make the Valley a better place. The work the two students put into creating these cardholders is amazing and the product is outstanding. For me, and I know for others on the board, it will serve as a continued reminder of how important our work is on behalf of the entire STC family and the future of the Valley."

Rose Benavidez sworn in to represent Starr County

Rose Benavidez is sworn in by Starr County Judge Eloy Vera to serve on South Texas College's Board of Trustees as the District 1 representative for Starr County.

Many Starr County residents came out to South Texas College's Starr County Campus on the evening of Nov. 19, 2009 for a special event - the swearing in of Rose Benavidez to represent the constituents of the county on STC's Board of Trustees.

Surrounded by family, friends and community supporters, Benavidez was sworn in by Starr County Judge Eloy Vera. Business associates and supporters helped mark the occasion by congratulating Benavidez on choosing to serve in public office.

"When I drove into Rio Grande City for the event this afternoon and I saw all of the growth, it floored me," said Bonnie Gonzalez, CEO of Workforce Solutions. "Every time I see it, it floors me. The opportunity that exists here is phenomenal and Rose has played a large part in helping to bring about that growth and opportunity. Starr County and South Texas College are very fortunate to have her on their side."

A native of Starr County, Benavidez is familiar with the challenges many of us face when growing up in a rural region, but also values the cultural enrichment it provides an individual. Her belief in the power of education to transform minds, lives, and communities was part of the reason why she chose to run for the vacant District 1 seat on STC's Board of Trustees.

"I have witnessed firsthand the challenges our community has faced battling high unemployment and poverty levels and have seen how education can be a driving force in leading our community and its residents to prosperity," said Benavidez. "At a young age I was taught the value of an education and began to understand the barriers many face, especially in Starr County, to achieve their educational goals. I want to work hard to make certain that those obstacles are eliminated."

Benavidez is also the executive director of the Starr County Industrial Foundation, a role she began in 2003, and one that will prove an integral component in her work as an STC trustee.

"My job involves promoting economic development and developing workforce training opportunities for our area and I know the knowledge I have gained and the partnerships I have made will directly benefit the college and the community," said Benavidez. "I look forward to working with STC to develop a technology-based workforce that can attract new industries to the county, bringing with them opportunities for higher-skilled, higher-paying jobs."

She looks forward to serving all the constituents of STC and continuing to ensure that the community continues to progress in becoming a "college going culture," where attending college is possible and expected for all.

"When I started to consider serving on the board, I saw it as an opportunity to utilize my experience and knowledge in economic development for the benefit of the college and the communities it serves," she concluded. "I hope to bring a fresh perspective and work closely with my colleagues on the board to help continue expanding and improving STC."

Benavidez earned her bachelor's in political science and is completing her master’s in public administration from The University of Texas-Pan American. She is a member of numerous civic and professional organizations, including a board member of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Workforce Development Board, vice-chair of the Border Region Mental Health and Mental Retardation Board, a founding member of the Rio South Texas Economic Development Council, a member of the Texas Workforce Commission Industry Task Force, a member of the Texas Business and Education Coalition, Member, and a member of the Career Employment Advisory Committee of South Texas.

RIO GRANDE CITY - The South Texas College Board of Trustees plans to swear in its newest member tonight at its Starr County campus.

Rose Benavidez is the daughter of the late Manuel Benavidez Jr., one of the college's founding trustees. She became his presumptive successor earlier this fall when she was the only one to file for candidacy for the District 1 post, which represents Starr County. Her father held the seat until his death in March.

STC canceled its Nov. 3 election to choose his successor when it turned out that his daughter was the only one to file for candidacy.

"I'm very happy Rose Benavidez is taking her father's spot," said Trustee Gary Gurwitz, one of three board members who wanted to appoint her to the position last spring.

Rose Benavidez is the executive director of the Starr County Industrial Foundation and serves in several civic and professional organizations.

In an earlier interview, she said she was looking forward to helping to prepare for and direct the college's growth, as well as keeping the residents of Starr and Hidalgo counties informed of and involved in the college's progress.

Oct. 8,2009, Mission, Texas- South Texas College took the opportunity to honor its founding Board of Trustees at its annual "A Night with the Stars," an event raising scholarship money for its Valley Scholars Program. The event commemorated the strong leadership of the founding board and its contributions to making STC the largest college south of San Antonio.

" When the late Gov. Ann Richards signed the bill into law creating this college, she elected people to serve on the founding board with integrity, common sense, and some business acumen to know how to start an organization and build it from almost nothing," said Dr. Shirley A Reed, STC president. "Her decisions have served us very well. We are truly blessed to have been guided by such a strong and committed founding board. STC' s success and growth is your lasting legacy and gift to the Rio Grande Valley."

Honorees included U.S. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa, founding president of the board; Glen E. Roney, founding vice-president of the board; current Board Member Gary Gurwitz, founding secretary of the board; and members Rosalinda Gonzalez and Dr. Amparo Cardenas.

" Tonight is about appreciating how far the college has come and how much it has achieved in such a short time," said Gurwitz. "STC has given an opportunity for many students to attend college that might not have otherwise had the opportunity or the means. What has been accomplished is truly extraordinary and where STC is today is a testimony to the efforts and dedication of the college's administration, faculty, staff and students."

Manuel Benavidez Jr., who was also a founding member, was also honored at the event. He faithfully represented the constituents of Starr County and Western Hidalgo County on the board until his passing in March 2009.

" My father was a very proud man; he was proud of his family, his community, his heritage, and of his role as a founding board member of this once small institution," said Rose Benavidez, daughter of Manuel Benavidez Jr. and STC board member-elect to represent District 1. "He had great dreams and recognized the greater responsibilities that went along with them. The challenges he faced in life aren't very different from those faced by many of our students. And those experiences are what motivated him to devotedly work alongside each of you to create equal access to education to everyone." All proceeds from the event benefit STC's Valley Scholars Program, founded in 1997 to provide scholarships to academically gifted and highly motivated students. More than 350 Valley Scholars have earned degrees through the program.

"These are some of our most talented young people," said honoree Rosalinda Gonzalez. " Scholarships, recognition and a support system can make all the difference. The program not only insures college readiness, but college success. I congratulate STC on its success."

Melanie Palomo and Diana Perez, two alumni of the program, were honored at the event for their personal and professional accomplishments since graduating from STC. "STC' s Valley Scholars Program was the jumpstart to my education, and lays a solid foundation for many more students like me to build upon," said Palomo, who currently serves as an assistant district attorney with Hidalgo County. "The sponsors of the program support a lot more than students' they support dreams. I am very grateful and proud to be a graduate."

For additional information about the event visit http://www.southtexascollege.edu/nightwithstars/index.html.

Benavidez Announces STC Board Candidacy

Starr County, June 25, 2009 - Surrounded by family, friends, and supporters, Rose Benavidez, officially announced her intention to seek election for the vacant South Texas College, District 1 board seat. A native of Starr County, Benavidez received a Bachelor' s degree in Political Science and is completing her Master's in Public Administration from The University of Texas-Pan American. She currently serves as the Executive Director for the Starr County Industrial Foundation, an organization that functions as the economic development agency for the area. A strong advocate for education, she considers it the driving force in leading our community and its residents to prosperity. At a young age I was taught the value of an education and began to understand the barriers many face to achieve it, I want to work hard to make certain that those obstacles are eliminated, Benavidez said.

Benavidez has dedicated her professional career towards developing and diversifying our local economy through sound economic growth, while improving access to education and creating job opportunities. During the past six years, I witnessed the challenges our community has faced battling high unemployment and poverty levels and have seen how South Texas College has been a catalyst in our transformation. Consequently, we must make certain that curriculum and programs are developed that complement education and skills training with practical job opportunities, she added.

Benavidez serves in numerous civic and professional organizations, some of which include the Lower Rio Grande Valley Workforce Development Board, Board Member; Border Region Mental Health and Mental Retardation Board, Vice-Chair; Rio South Texas Economic Development Council, Founding Board Member; Texas Workforce Commission Industry Task Force, Member; Texas Business and Education Coalition, Member; Career Employment Advisory Committee of South Texas, Member.

The post she is seeking was left vacant when founding board member Manuel Benavidez, Jr., passed away this March.