Rogue Community College (RCC) is celebrating a remarkable surge in enrollment that significantly outpaces statewide averages, according to the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC). The recently released fourth-week enrollment data for the 2024 fall term highlights RCC’s success in boosting student numbers, showcasing its commitment to accessible education and community engagement.
RCC reported a 14% increase in full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment compared to fall 2023, alongside a nearly 10% rise in overall headcount. This growth places RCC ahead of the statewide trend, which saw a 7% FTE increase and a 4.3% rise in headcount at Oregon community colleges during the same period. While statewide enrollment remains below pre-pandemic levels, RCC has successfully returned to its 2019 FTE numbers and continues to grow its reach.
“These enrollment gains reflect the extraordinary dedication of our faculty and staff to improving student success and fostering community partnerships,” said RCC President Randy Weber. “Our mission is to provide exceptional educational and workforce opportunities, and these numbers show we’re achieving that.”
The college’s enrollment growth has been consistent over the past three years, with headcount increasing by over 30% and FTE climbing more than 42% since 2021. This upward trend is attributed to a range of innovative strategies designed to meet the needs of Southern Oregon’s students and workforce.
RCC has implemented a series of targeted initiatives to make education more accessible and aligned with local economic needs. These include:
- Improved Course Scheduling: Changes to course offerings allow students to more easily select and complete necessary classes, leading to higher credit loads and graduation rates.
- Enhanced High School Outreach: Collaborations with K-12 schools in Jackson and Josephine counties are aimed at fostering a college-going culture and supporting high school students transitioning to higher education.
- Adult Learner Engagement: Outreach campaigns focus on adult learners, providing resources and programs to encourage their return to education.
- Workforce Alignment: Programs tailored to meet local employer needs strengthen the workforce pipeline, benefiting both students and the regional economy.
“We’ve worked hard to make enrollment easier and help students succeed,” explained Nicole Sakraida, RCC’s Dean of Enrollment Management. “By refining processes and expanding support systems, we’re ensuring that students have the tools they need to thrive.”
RCC’s partnerships with Southern Oregon University and local industries have also been pivotal in creating opportunities for students. Collaborative efforts such as open houses, early registration campaigns, and improved placement processes are breaking down barriers and encouraging more people to pursue higher education.
“Our progress is a testament to the power of community,” Weber noted. “By working together with schools, industries, and other institutions, we’re driving better outcomes for our students and our region.”
RCC’s growth reflects a broader trend of renewed interest in community colleges, which provide affordable and flexible education. As the college continues its mission to enhance the quality of life in its community, its innovative strategies and commitment to accessibility position it as a leader in Southern Oregon education.
For more information about RCC and its programs, visit roguecc.edu.
