Statement on Proposed Tuition-free Community College Education Under President Biden’s American Families Plan
April 29, 2021
“We are excited and eager to hear details about President Biden’s American Families Plan and vision to alleviate poverty and systemic inequities. To revitalize our region’s economy in a way that offers all residents an equitable opportunity to get ahead, federal support for some form of free college tuition and increased Pell Grant funding under President Biden’s plan is a significant step toward rebuilding a skilled workforce. Through the American Families Plan, an estimated 35,000 Rochesterians age 25 and older who have no education beyond high school will have a real opportunity to start and complete their college studies with zero debt at Monroe Community College toward a career that requires less than a four-year degree. Tuition-free community college education will give underrepresented and disadvantaged residents a real shot at a family-sustaining career in the post-COVID economy. With our industry and community partners, MCC is prepared to build on its 60-year track record of creating access and opportunity for students of all ages and backgrounds.”
— Katherine P. Douglas, Ed.D.
Monroe Community College interim president