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Time to celebrate in blue and gray – Kellogg Community College (KCC) has been named the best community college in Michigan!
WalletHub, a personal finance website, recently released its 2023 rankings of more than 650 American community colleges. Each college’s score is based on a total of 19 factors in three key dimensions: cost and financing (like the costs of in-state tuition, average scholarship aid and student employment services), education outcomes (like graduation rate, credentials awarded and special learning opportunities), and career outcomes (like median salary post-graduation and student loan default rates).
Kellogg Community College, a longtime grantee of WKKF, took the top spot in Michigan this year, with a total score of 62.63. This also makes the college number 33 out of the over 650 colleges surveyed.
WKKF currently supports KCC’s iACT (Innovative, Accelerated Credentialed Training) initiative that trains low-income people to begin upward economic mobility by accessing careers in high-demand advanced manufacturing and healthcare jobs, and also provides new opportunities in the phlebotomy, service and retail industries. Participants in iACT receive free access to in-person training at two of KCC’s Battle Creek campuses, as well as cash incentives, a free laptop, access to a free internet hotspot and technology guidance and career coaching services.
WalletHub’s site offers a variety of tools, resources and information related to personal finance and economic topics, aiming to empower consumers to make informed financial decisions by providing access to valuable information and tools. In today’s economy, a community college can offer a more cost-effective pathway to higher education, allowing students to acquire valuable skills and credentials without accumulating excessive debt. Additionally, community colleges often collaborate closely with local industries, tailoring their programs to meet the specific needs of the job market, leading to quicker employment opportunities and enhanced career prospects.
Kellogg Community College was established in 1956, making it one of Michigan’s oldest community colleges. The college was founded with financial support from the Kellogg Foundation to provide accessible higher education and vocational training to the local community. Its first classes were held in temporary facilities before moving to its permanent location on North Avenue in Battle Creek. Over the years, the Kellogg Foundation’s contributions and support have helped shape the college’s growth, programs, and ability to provide accessible education.
Today, Kellogg Community College serves an average of 8,400 students annually across five campuses, along with customized training and online coursework. The college offers a wide range of academic programs, including 35 associate degrees, 28 certificates, six categories of professional certifications, and vocational training. The college serves not only traditional students but also non-traditional learners, working adults and those seeking career advancement or retraining.
KCC remains committed to its mission of providing accessible and affordable education to the local community. The college plays a significant role in supporting economic development in the region by preparing a skilled workforce and providing opportunities for lifelong learning.
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