President Lepper’s Key Goals for Winter 2024 Semester Unveiled

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Charles Lepper, the President of Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC), is focusing on preparing for the college’s accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), improving retention rates, and refining the institution’s strategic plan as he marks his one-year anniversary at the institution. Since his tenure began, GRCC has seen an increase in enrollment and overall revenue. Lepper also emphasizes that his mission for the upcoming semester includes preparing for the HLC accreditation process, fine-tuning the institution’s strategic plan, developing a strategic enrollment management plan, strengthening partnerships with K-12 systems and other universities, and promoting the college’s sense of community to enhance student engagement.

One Year of Leadership: GRCC President Charles Lepper’s Forward Vision

Charles Lepper, the president of Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC), is celebrating his one-year anniversary in the role. Looking forward, he aims to prepare for the college’s upcoming accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), increase retention rates, and refine the institution’s strategic plan.

As GRCC’s chief executive officer, Lepper has led the administration under the guidance of the board of trustees. Under his leadership, the college has seen a rise in enrollment and a boost in overall revenue.

Lepper stressed his mission this semester to prepare for the HLC accreditation process in March. This process, vital for the college’s reputation, also influences the financial aid GRCC can offer to students.

He further highlighted the importance of this accreditation, stating, “Institutions that students receive Title IV funding and Pell Grants must be accredited by one of the eight regionally accredited bodies that the Federal Department of Education recognizes… to ensure the quality of education.”

These ten-year evaluations require extensive preparation to meet and exceed the HLC’s standards. GRCC has been preparing for this accreditation for almost two years.

In addition to HLC accreditation, Lepper plans to refine GRCC’s strategic plan, develop a strategic enrollment management plan, strengthen partnerships with the K-12 system and four-year institutions, and continue the college’s mission of belonging.

Lepper noted increasing student engagement and belonging on campus. He said, “As I mentioned on opening day, we’ve seen more students participating in campus activities and events. These are all positive signs of community.”

Lepper is also focusing on increasing retention rates and enrollment numbers as they prepare for 2024. He added, “It’s really a multifaceted approach. It can’t just be about bringing new students to GRCC, we also have to make sure that our students stay from semester one to semester two and complete a credential or associate degree.”

He concluded by reminding students of the college’s support system. “Our faculty are here to help support them, our staff is here to support them. We want our students to be successful,” Lepper said.

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