On July 19, a new partnership between Garden City Community College and Newman University was announced that will allow area students to complete their associate degree from GCCC and their Bachelor’s degree from Newman without leaving Garden City.
The initiative will launch this Fall and offer degree completion in business administration and agribusiness.
Additional degree programs will be added to this partnership in the future.
Students may start or finish their associate degree at GCCC and then take in-person classes
through the new Newman location in Garden City.
GCCC President Dr. Ryan Ruda stressed the importance of this collaboration, calling it vital for retaining talent in southwest Kansas and the region. Ruda said talking to students and reviewing data made it imperative for the college to find solutions to bring four-year degree completion opportunities in a face-to-face format.
“This collaboration with Newman University brings strong programs that enhance access and affordability while retaining talent in our local communities,” he said. “We are enthusiastic about this partnership given Newman’s proven track record in Garden City with its education program and a strong commitment to students’ financial assistance. Garden City Community College remains committed to meeting educational needs and our mission of producing positive contributors to society, which aligns closely with the mission of Newman University.”
Newman President Kathleen S. Jagger believes the partnership will have an impact for the
region.
“We are thrilled to share the news of our extraordinary partnership with Garden City Community College that reflects the extent to which our respective missions align. We firmly believe that education is a catalyst for growth and community vibrancy, and that our graduates will be positive change agents,” she said. “Our expanded range of programs in southwest Kansas aims to bridge a significant gap in higher education options, enabling students to earn a bachelor’s degree in business, education and soon in nursing … while remaining in their hometowns.”
Newman Vice President for Academic Affairs Alden Stout added, “This joint effort allows students to remain at home, maintain connections within their communities and gain the necessary knowledge and experience to succeed in their chosen fields.”
Stout said students who complete their associate degree and enroll with Newman will receive a $20,000 scholarship and will be eligible for further need-based aid.
“We believe this collaboration represents the fulfillment of our shared vision of a region that thrives through accessible and comprehensive education, thereby transforming lives and nurturing future leaders,” Stout said.
In addition to a $20,000 annual scholarship, Garden City Community College graduates who receive federal Pell or state grants are eligible for the Newman Match Grant which provides additional aid to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for students.
For more information, visit the GCCC website, the Newman website, or contact Webstert@newmanu.edu or 620-227-9616.
About Newman University
Newman University is a Catholic university named for St. John Henry Newman and founded by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ for the purpose of empowering graduates to transform society. Newman meets the needs of traditional first-time students, transfers, returning adults, and graduate students.