Earlier this month, Jhenipher Morel, Alejandro Ramos, Dr. Lovell Pugh-Bassett, President of Camden County College (CCC), and Board of Trustees member Jessica Purnell ’09 joined over 1,000 community college leaders for the ACCT (Association of Community College Trustees) National Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.
The ACCT National Legislative Summit is an annual advocacy event in Washington, D.C., that provides community college leaders the opportunity to connect with members of the U.S. Congress, administration officials, and other high-profile speakers about legislative issues impacting community colleges while highlighting their importance in our education system.
Alejandro and Jhenipher are uniquely equipped to represent the interests of their fellow students, as both serve as Student Government Association Officers. “I knew the summit was an opportunity for student government leaders to meet up, share ideas, and build connections,” mentioned Alejandro, who serves as SGA President. Jhenipher serves as the Camden City Campus Executive Officer.
During their three days in D.C., attendees spent a considerable amount of time with lawmakers, including Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Congresswoman Nellie Pou (NJ-09), and Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (NJ-10). Jhenipher reflected on her interaction with Congressman Norcross, who himself is a CCC alumnus. “We discussed the financial challenges adult learners face, which often forces them to choose between work and academics,” she said. “We also emphasized the importance of expanding financial aid and workforce development programs aligned with in-demand career paths aimed at helping adult learners succeed academically and professionally.” These interactions highlight a shared commitment to enhancing education and career opportunities, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
Support for adult learners was just one of the many areas that community college leaders advocated for during their time on Capitol Hill. Other areas included enacting a tax exemption on Pell Grants, increasing funding for Federal Work Study, and increasing awareness of the importance of community colleges.
While thousands of students and leaders from across the country, with different backgrounds and experiences, attended the summit, they found common ground on the importance of community colleges. “What really surprised me was the genuine sense of community among everyone there,” reflected Ramos. “It wasn’t just about policies; it was about real people coming together, all believing in the mission to improve community colleges.”
Alejandro and Jhenipher know that their trip to D.C. was just one of the many steps needed to give community colleges the recognition they deserve. Still, it is a start, “I hope the summit sparks ongoing dialogue and actionable change, ensuring that community colleges continue to serve as vital resources for students and their communities,” said Jhenipher.
