A graduate celebrates his accomplishment at the May 2012 commencement.
The year’s accomplishments include:
Increase in graduates. ACC experienced significant growth in its graduates. More than 1,200 students applied to graduate in fall – a 30 percent increase over last fall. In fact, graduations have increased nearly 80 percent since 2006-2007 academic year.
Student success. ACC ranked among the top 10 Texas colleges and universities for CPA exam pass rates this year – the only community college to make the list. In addition, the number of students completing ACC’s GED preparatory program and earning their high school equivalency certificate grew 20 percent over the previous year, to 420 students. Overall, the program has seen an increase of 78 percent since 2008.
Prestigious visitors. In 2012, ACC students had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Temple Grandin, an advocate for autism awareness and animal welfare, and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.
Grant funding for innovative learning. The U.S. Department of Labor awarded ACC more than $4.5 million in a highly competitive grant program. ACC is a partner institution in three grants – half of the grants awarded in Texas. The college will use the funds to formulate innovative learning models in the fields of computer programming, biotechnology, and biology.
Growth and expansion. ACC acquired the final element of Highland Mall and moved forward with plans for the first phase of renovation, the former J.C. Penney building. The college is progressing toward a spring 2013 groundbreaking and a fall 2014 opening. In addition, the college broke ground on Hays Campus (set to open spring 2014) and continued to make progress on the construction of Elgin Campus (opening fall 2013).
Sustainability initiatives. Â ACC’s commitment to sustainable practices earned the college a national 2012 Climate Leadership Award. Initiatives and accomplishments this year include LEED certification for Round Rock Campus, charging stations for electric vehicles, and a partnership with Zipcar, a provider of car-sharing services.
Facilities improvements plan. The ACC Board of Trustees voted unanimously to work toward a November 2013 bond election to fund a facilities improvement plan – intended to expand the college’s capacity and allow for growth in key programs that increase student success and meet the needs of the workforce.
Financial strength and stability. ACC’s Board of Trustees adopted a $272 million balanced budget for 2012-13. Also, for the ninth consecutive year, ACC earned the highest recognition for governmental accounting and financial reporting.
Stay updated on ACC news by visiting the college’s online newsroom at austincc.edu/newsroom.