Montcalm Community College (MCC) has reported a remarkable enrollment increase of 16.2% this fall, reaching a total of 2,035 students. This growth is particularly significant considering the challenges faced during the pandemic, which saw enrollment plummet to its lowest levels in decades. The college’s President, Bradley Barrick, expressed his astonishment at the progress made since then, stating that the college is on track to lead Michigan community colleges in enrollment once again.
During a recent meeting of the MCC Board, Barrick shared the latest enrollment figures, highlighting an increase from 1,751 students last year to 2,035 this fall. This rise positions MCC as the highest in enrollment growth among Michigan’s community colleges, surpassing Southwestern Michigan College, which recorded a 12% increase during the same period. Compared to the fall of 2020, when MCC had only 1,414 students, the current figures represent a substantial 44% increase.
Spring Enrollment Projections and Dual Enrollment Growth
Looking ahead, Barrick announced that 1,654 students are already registered for the upcoming spring semester, reflecting a 16.54% increase compared to the same time last year. The total contact hours, a key metric used for state funding, have also risen by 18.83%. Notably, the number of dual-enrolled students has surged to 704, surpassing last year’s total of 664.
“It’s mind-blowing,” Barrick remarked, suggesting that the college may again lead the state in spring enrollment. He credited much of this growth to the efforts of Francisco Ramirez, Dean of Student and Enrollment Services, and his team, acknowledging their hard work in achieving these results.
The dual enrollment program has seen significant expansion over the past five years. In the fall of 2020, there were only 349 high school students enrolled in dual courses at MCC. As of this fall, that number has skyrocketed to 817, marking a 134% increase.
Expanding Outreach and Addressing Transportation Needs
As enrollment trends continue to rise, the college is exploring ways to further engage students from surrounding areas, particularly in Ionia County. Board Vice Chair Carol Deuling-Ravell raised concerns about the accessibility of the college for students from Ionia High School, which is situated 23 miles from MCC’s Sidney campus. The nearest community colleges are Lansing Community College and Grand Rapids Community College, both located over 30 miles away.
Deuling-Ravell questioned the college’s readiness to meet the needs of these students, particularly regarding transportation. “Have we talked about a tipping point?” she asked, emphasizing the challenges faced by students who may not have reliable transportation.
In response, Barrick indicated that discussions are underway to establish a physical presence in Ionia County that could include partnerships with local organizations, such as the Ionia County Career Center. “We are on the front end of those conversations,” he noted, assuring that initiatives are being considered to enhance accessibility for Ionia students.
As Montcalm Community College continues to break enrollment records, it remains focused on expanding its reach and adapting to the needs of its students. With plans to strengthen ties with Ionia County schools and enhance support for dual-enrolled students, the college is poised for further growth in the coming years.
