If you want to know what Virginia’s Community Colleges are all about, look no further than the editorial pages of two small community newspapers this month.

Both editorials touched me, and are a reminder of the critical role each Virginia Community College plays in its’ community.

The first was published Sunday Nov. 15 in The Southwest Times. This sweet little testament to New River Community College - totally unsolicited – says:

Nestled in the rolling hills here is New River Community College. It is more precious than all the natural resources in the surrounding countryside.

After recounting the history of the college, which started as a regional vo-tech center before becoming part of the community college system in 1966 when the system was created, the editorial concludes,

We are blessed to have this amazing school at our doorstep. As industry closes, NRCC has recommitted to retraining displaced workers and assisting them in new careers. If you are displaced or just want to learn a new trade, it’s not too late. NRCC has an enthusiastic staff of professionals who are dedicated to putting you to work again….

Our hills are alive with the sounds of hope.

Maria von Trapp, where are you?

The second echoes the same themes of commitment — and hope.

It is an op-ed written by Paul D. Camp Community College President Doug Boyce.  Published Nov. 7 in The Tidewater News (read the whole thing here), Boyce was early and clear in reaching out to his community after the devastating news that International Paper will close its Franklin Mill by June 2010.

“All of us at Paul D. Camp Community College were stunned by International Co.’s announcement,” Boyce said. “We at the college recognize the devastating impact on lives, families, businesses and communities all over the region. Many of those experiencing these losses are personal friends and colleagues who have taken classes and used services of the college, served on advisory committees and helped the college in other ways. We are grieving already and bracing ourselves for what lies ahead.”

But, Boyce continues, “While our sense of loss is very deep individually and as a region, we have reasons to hope for the future.” 

He lists the reasons for hope:   A proud tradition of resilience and mutual support; employees with a work ethic that will be needed across the region; people acknowledging that they need help from each other and help from God; remarkable entrepreneurs; and committed local, state and national leaders. 

Finally, he lists, “we have a wonderful set of community assets, including a great community college.”

PDCCC is your communities college. The college is all about educational access and opportunity and meeting regional needs.

 And he concludes,

“These are difficult times for our communities. Drawing on the resources available to us and pulling together as a region we can — and I believe we will — overcome and build a better future for our area.”

What welcome recognition for the college; what compelling commitment to community.

– posted by Susan Hayden