Rappahannock Community College Students and Administrators Advocate in Richmond for Continued Investment in Community Colleges
In a powerful show of support for Virginia’s community colleges, Rappahannock Community College (RCC) President Dr. Shannon Kennedy and Dean of Student Development Dr. David Keel led a group of RCC students to the Virginia General Assembly recently to meet with legislators and discuss the future of education in the state. The students shared their personal stories with Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent and Senator Richard Stuart, highlighting the impact of community college programs that provide students with affordable pathways to in-demand careers. Kent and Stuart listened to the students’ stories and shared their support for community colleges.
Chancellor of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) David Doré has emphasized how Virginia’s community colleges are central to the state’s economic future. “Last year, we served more than 232,000 students statewide,” said Doré. “These are Virginians who have brought their hopes and dreams to us, to help them build better lives.” Doré urged lawmakers to understand the value of community colleges not only as educational institutions but also as key economic drivers.
The delegation's main message to lawmakers was simple: continued support for community colleges is critical for closing the skills gap and providing accessible, affordable education and training that meets the needs of today’s workforce. “Our students come from all walks of life,” Doré continued. “Many are working adults, parents, or returning veterans who are looking for the opportunity to advance their careers and provide a better life for their families. Community colleges are providing that opportunity.”
RCC students who attended the event had the chance to speak directly with legislators about their experiences, sharing their aspirations and the ways RCC has supported them. Military veteran Charles Caniglia, a student at RCC, remarked, “I got to speak to the chancellor about what I’m studying and what my goals are for the future. I also spoke with Delegate Kent and Senator Stuart about how important it is for community colleges to receive state funding and support for programs. The services that community colleges provide are critical, and that was my message to them.”
Tom Thai, an arts and sciences transfer student, shared, “I had the opportunity to discuss my goal to transfer to a four-year university with an associate degree and talked about the importance of programs like TRiO Student Support Services and financial assistance through Pell Grants and FAFSA. I am amazed at how much community colleges impact our communities, and Senator Stuart was particularly supportive of our work.”
Nursing student Afeez Gbadamosi also reflected on his experience in Richmond, saying, “It was great seeing how different people came to the General Assembly and made their voices heard. We discussed funding for dual enrollment programs and other financial assistance to ensure our college remains a vital resource for the community.”
The students’ advocacy comes at a crucial time for Virginia’s community colleges, as state funding for higher education is under review. At the Virginia Bankers Association and VCCS Legislative Reception in January, Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the importance of community colleges in the state’s economic growth, stating, “The heart of our economic growth is the talent we have in Virginia. Our community colleges must be THE workforce development engine of Virginia, whether they’re helping high school graduates make their way into universities or into the workforce with industry credentials.”
As the legislative session continues, RCC President Shannon Kennedy remains hopeful that legislators will recognize the essential role that community colleges play in both education and economic development. “Our students are the future of Virginia’s workforce,” Kennedy said. “By investing in our community colleges, we are investing in the people who will power our state’s economy for years to come.”