A message from the president This has been a year of change, discovery, celebration and challenge. Since assuming the presidency in October 2011 a number of things have taken center stage. SCC celebrated its 25th anniversary with several meaningful events that allowed us to tell the storied history of the college and to recognize the many accomplishments and successes of the first 25 years. It also provided a backdrop to discuss the college’s future and how we will plan strategically to ensure that SCC remains a vital and strong partner for individuals and businesses in our service area. As we prepare to launch a year-long long-range planning process, it is useful to recap some of the current realities faced by the college – both positive and challenging. On the side of challenges, the college has seen two consecutive years of cuts in state funding to public higher education in Missouri. Together, these cuts total more than 12 percent in reduced state funding with more anticipated for the 2012-13 fiscal year. Similarly, property tax receipts have been lower than expected as property values have leveled or declined. Finally, we have seen enrollments flatten and even shrink as growth of the county has slowed. On the positive side of the ledger, grants and partnerships increased this year, responding to training needs of the local workforce. The college has seen record fund-raising for academic enhancements and scholarships through the support of the community and corporate giving. Student achievements were at an all-time high in 2011-12, and organizations like Phi Theta Kappa and the roller hockey club have garnered regional and national recognition for excellence, including the hockey team’s 10th national championship won in April. In August, SCC will begin a comprehensive year-long planning process to chart the future of the college, taking into account these challenges and positives. The process will provide opportunities for community and stakeholder input on numerous levels. I am confident that, through this long-range planning, SCC will continue to be a vibrant partner and an engine for economic growth and financial success of businesses and individuals throughout St. Charles County and beyond. I am humbled and honored to have joined SCC last fall, and I look forward to working with the college and community through this next phase of growth and success.
– Ron Chesbrough, Ph.D. SCC President 1