Modesto Junior College is proud to announce that it has been awarded a prestigious Title V federal grant from the United States Department of Education that will provide $2.8 million in funding over a five-year period to support college-wide activities to increase the success of Hispanic, underrepresented, low income and other students.

“Our community colleges provide excellent training and a strong foundation for continued education,” said Congressman Dennis Cardoza, 18th Congressional District. “I could not be more pleased to announce this grant and I look forward to the expanded opportunities Modesto Junior College will be able to provide to our region.”

The grant program entitled “Strengthening Student Success” will provide a three-pronged approach aimed at increasing educational opportunities and enhancing academic quality at the college. The Title V grant will fund three centers of activity:

1. The Student Learning Resource Center will establish a “first-year experience program” to improve learning, provide training and build support relationships. Establishment of a Peer-led tutoring program to help students succeed in graduation-level math courses is a priority.

2. The Faculty and Staff Professional Development Center will develop staff resources and coordinate training to improve teaching and student support strategies for students. Workshops on diversity and equity issues, technology, leadership and communication skills will be offered.

3. The Grant Resource Development Center will provide training for MJC staff and faculty to develop, write and manage grants that will help the college better serve the community.

“We are excited by the student support programs and staff training opportunities that this grant will provide or enhance for our college,” said Dr. Richard Rose, MJC President. “I’m very proud of our team of staff members who had a shared vision and pursued it by preparing the successful grant application. Because of their foresight and teamwork, many of our students are going to be helped toward achieving their educational goals.”

President Rose has appointed Peggy Kroll as the project administrator for the Title V grant and planning is underway to manage and implement the grant. For more information about the Title V grant, contact Kroll at 575-7855 or krollp@mjc.edu