New Jersey community colleges advocate for federal funding to support 240000 students

The Assembly Higher Education Committee convened on March 10, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting community colleges in New Jersey, focusing on federal funding and its implications for students and educational programs. The meeting featured testimony from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Council of County Colleges and Brookdale Community College.

The session began with an acknowledgment of the importance of workforce development in higher education. A speaker emphasized the need for ongoing support to not only attract new teachers but also retain them, highlighting the broader impact on students across the state.

Dr. Aaron Fichter, representing the Council of County Colleges, provided an overview of the federal funding landscape for community colleges. He noted that New Jersey's colleges receive approximately $300 million annually in federal funding, which constitutes about 25% of their total financial resources. The Pell Grant program was identified as a significant source of support, benefiting around 49,000 community college students and providing $190 million each year. Other funding sources mentioned included Perkins funding for career technical education and workforce development grants, which are essential for maintaining and enhancing educational programs.

Dr. David Stout, president of Brookdale Community College, shared specific examples of funding impacts at his institution. He reported that Brookdale receives $11 million in Pell Grants, supporting 2,800 students. Additionally, the college benefits from Perkins funding and the GEAR UP program, which assists students in preparing for college and careers.

The discussion also touched on the challenges posed by potential cuts in state aid and rising operational costs, including healthcare expenses. Dr. Fichter expressed concern over a proposed 12% reduction in state funding for community colleges in the upcoming fiscal year, urging committee members to consider the implications of these cuts on educational access and workforce readiness.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support for community colleges, which serve a diverse student population, including many first-generation college students and those from minority backgrounds. The representatives underscored the vital role that federal and state funding plays in ensuring that these institutions can provide quality education and training to meet the needs of New Jersey's economy.