FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Sonji Joyner
Communications Manager, Office of Communications
joynersr@pgcc.edu
Prince George’s County Councilman Edward Burroughs III announces $2 million grant
for county residents to attend Prince George’s Community College
LARGO, Md. (November 16, 2023) — Today Councilman Edward Burroughs III announced a $2 million grant to assist Prince George’s County residents in attending Prince George’s Community College. This grant marks a commitment to increase accessibility to higher education for local residents.
“We commit ourselves to say that every resident in our community should have direct access as well as the opportunity to earn a credential, certificate, or a degree that is going to lift them from places of poverty into opportunities to earn family-sustaining wages,” Dr. Falecia Williams, President of Prince George’s Community College, said. “Community colleges are America's lifeblood and we would let no one in our community have the door closed on that opportunity.”
Prince George’s County residents within six miles of the MGM will be eligible to take advantage of the grant opportunity. Notably, District 8 residents are encouraged by Councilman Burroughs who represents that community to apply for the award at PGCC. The financial incentive will be available for eligible new students beginning the spring 2024 semester.
“We know that education is a great equalizer,” Burroughs said. “When we talk about combating issues around poverty and crime and creating opportunities for individuals, it all starts with a quality education. Whether it's a degree, certification, or a credential, we know that the skills that our individuals in our district will gain here will not only benefit them, but it will benefit their entire families and our entire community.”
In-county PGCC students typically spend about $3,900 annually in tuition and fees. The award distribution through the Impact Grant will assist students in covering the cost of tuition and fees. The distribution is encouraged to be used as a supplement to other grants and financial resources available to the student.
Maryland State Senator C. Anthony Muse attended the event to lend his support. He expressed that he would like to see this program expanded statewide in the future.
“If we all pull together as a community, we can expand this beyond the district where you are,” Muse said. “We can say to all, this is our responsibility to make sure that our children have a chance at life. I’m glad that through your program you are giving people an opportunity.”
According to the U.S. Census, approximately 35 percent of the population in Prince George’s County at least 25 years or older have a bachelor's degree. This data presents a marginal opportunity for students who desire a credential, certificate or a degree to take advantage of the Impact Grant by taking classes at Prince George’s Community College.
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About Prince George’s Community College
Named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security (2022-2027), Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) provides high-quality education and training for the progressive and career-oriented residents of Prince George’s County. From new high school graduates and career seekers to more seasoned professionals and senior citizens looking to enhance their skill sets, PGCC is comprised of students who represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and goals. Serving nearly 25,000 individuals annually, the College is the first choice for higher education for residents of Prince George’s County. Collaborative partnerships, responsive degree and training programs, and a commitment to student success enable PGCC to address diverse education and workforce development demands.
For more information, visit the College’s website at www.pgcc.edu. Prince George’s Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104; (267-284-5000); www.msche.org. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council on Higher Education.