Event underscores the power of partnership in driving progress across the region

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — FEB. 28, 2025 — Dutchess Community College welcomed community, industry and government leaders to campus Feb. 27 for the 2025 State of the College Address and President’s Reception. Held in the James and Betty Hall Theatre, the event featured an address by President Dr. Peter Grant Jordan and was emceed by Lisa Morris '85, chair of the DCC Foundation Board of Directors. The evening concluded with a reception in the Ritz Lounge, where guests connected with College leadership, faculty and community partners.

Morris opened the event by recognizing key stakeholders in attendance, including members of the DCC and DCC Foundation Board of Trustees, representatives from Governor Hochul’s office, New York State senators, county legislators, elected officials, educational partners and student leaders. She also underscored the power of collaboration in advancing educational and economic opportunities.

"DCC tells a powerful story of determination, growth and the transformative power of education," Morris said. "This past year has been no exception. We’ve opened doors, overcome challenges and created lasting opportunities—because of the support and generosity of the people in this room: our friends, partners and donors."

President Jordan reinforced the College’s role as a driver of economic mobility, citing a recent independent study that found DCC contributes more than $283 million annually to the local economy and supports over 3,500 jobs in Dutchess County. He also emphasized the long-term return on investment for individuals and their families, noting that DCC graduates earn, on average, $8,000 more per year than those with only a high school diploma.

"In a time when the value of higher education may be questioned, the value DCC offers our community has never been more certain," Dr. Jordan said. "We remain firmly committed to providing accessible, high-quality education that meets our students’ needs and drives our region’s economic growth."

The DCC president outlined four key areas of investment—People, Programs, Partnerships and Physical Assets—highlighting recent and upcoming initiatives designed to expand educational opportunities, align workforce training with industry needs and foster lifelong learning. Among the initiatives discussed were:

  • Expanding workforce-aligned programs such as mechatronics, automation, advanced manufacturing, HVAC and automotive technology
  • Growing experiential learning opportunities like applied learning, internships and apprenticeships
  • Strengthening community partnerships to create seamless transitions from education to employment
  • Enhancing campus resources such as the Black Box Theatre, the Aviation Education Center and the Dr. Mary Louise Van Winkle Teaching and Learning Center

Dr. Jordan emphasized that these efforts reflect the College’s broader commitment to serving students at every stage of their educational journey.

“A community college education is about more than just training for a career,” Dr. Jordan said. “It’s about providing our students with critical thinking skills, soft skills and the tools necessary to become informed, engaged citizens.”

The event was made possible through the support of the DCC Foundation. As the philanthropic arm of the College, the Foundation funds scholarships and programs that enhance student success and expand access to high-quality education.

For more information about the College’s initiatives and programs, visit www.sunydutchess.edu. 


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Founded in 1957, Dutchess Community College is a two-year community college that has earned a reputation for providing an outstanding education and offers one of the lowest tuition rates in New York state. The College currently has four locations including its main campus in Poughkeepsie, DCC @ Fishkill, DCC @ HVR Airport, and DCC @ the Family Partnership Center. For more information visit www.sunydutchess.edu.