TU: Lead Letter: FSCJ president supports more affordable college education
Times-Union
Never before has the need for quality and affordable higher education been so great. An estimated 65 percent of job openings will require at least an associate degree or higher by 2020.
But not everyone can afford that education and job training without taking out loans. The result? Crippling student debt.
Florida State College at Jacksonville is already one of the most affordable options in the nation with an annual average cost of $7,460 compared to the national average of $16,789.
FSCJ has seen success in providing many low-cost and no-cost opportunities for students to enroll, including scholarships and dual enrollment programs. Even with opportunities like this, financial barriers are real, and many students depend on loans to help them pay for their education.
However, that dependence on loans could change with the recent launch of the America’s College Promise Campaign and its Heads Up America public awareness initiative.
Affordable higher education not only benefits the student, it benefits our families, businesses and communities.
As FSCJ graduates move into higher-paying jobs, they will contribute to increased tax revenue, save taxpayers in decreased social and safety net services and contribute to better health and lower crime rates.
To that end, we all have a responsibility to support a long-term solution to the student debt crisis and advance the community college as a pathway to the American dream.
In order for our future generations to graduate debt free, we need your help. Every single person can make a difference in this mission.
I urge our business and community leaders to join this collaborative movement. I sincerely ask that they consider contributing to making affordable education for all a reality by donating to scholarships, creating paid internships that assist with paying down student loans and providing career mentorships.
Be part of the solution — join the movement!
Cynthia A. Bioteau, president,
Florida State College at Jacksonville