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The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors approved several routine items and campus upgrades during its March meeting, while also highlighting continued enrollment growth across the college.
MPCC President Ryan Purdy said dual credit and early entry enrollment has increased nearly 30 percent over the past year.
“We're seeing our dual credit early entry sections and enrollment up almost 30%, which is phenomenal,” Purdy said.
He said participation among high school juniors and seniors has also grown, with the college’s saturation rate rising from the mid-30 percent range to the low 40s. Purdy added that success rates among those students remain high.
“That was my concern… but their success rates have been high,” he said.
Overall enrollment at MPCC is up about 7 percent compared to the previous year.
During the meeting, the board approved February bills totaling more than $2.19 million.
Board members also approved the purchase of a 15-passenger van and three replacement minivans as part of the college’s regular fleet rotation. Purdy said vehicles are typically replaced every five to seven years to maintain safety and reliability for staff and students traveling across the college’s service area.
The board also approved upgrades to the welding lab at the North Platte Community College North Campus, including a new ventilation system, updated equipment and other improvements. Purdy said the project will improve conditions for students and is expected to be completed in time for the fall semester.
Purdy said the college is also monitoring potential state budget cuts that could impact community colleges across Nebraska. Current projections suggest a possible $5 million reduction statewide, which could mean a $350,000 to $400,000 impact for MPCC. He said the college plans to absorb the reduction this year without implementing a general fund tax levy while working with state lawmakers on future funding solutions.
Director of Marketing and Public Information Daniel Stinman also highlighted a new partnership between MPCC and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. The agreement creates a transfer pathway for music students, allowing them to complete an associate of fine arts degree at MPCC before transferring to UNK to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
MPCC is currently encouraging students to register for summer and fall classes as the college prepares for upcoming commencement and summer projects.