Substantial enrollment numbers include first-generation students

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla Community College celebrates the beginning of the fall quarter with a healthy mix of new and returning students. The estimated headcount on the first-day was up 12% over last year.

“The largest group of students in years is coming to WWCC this fall. We are ready to welcome them and to provide the personalized support and high-quality instruction every student deserves,” said President Chad Hickox.

While enrollment totals will not be final until the end of the term, WWCC expects to serve more than 2,300 students between the Walla Walla and Clarkston campuses this fall in state-funded and Running Start programs. Those numbers include more than 230 first-generation students. 

More than 600 students are enrolled in WWCC’s First Year Experience, a popular program designed to support a student’s academic and social transition to college and campus life.

Walla Walla Community College offers workforce, technical training, and academic degrees that transfer to four-year colleges and universities. New offerings this year include:

Medical Assisting Program is a certificate program that returns to meet rising community needs.

A two-year degree in Early Childhood Education allows students to gain credits at WWCC and transfer to Eastern Washington University as a junior.

Expanded programs in Welding and Diesel Technology.

Return of the Commercial Drivers Licensing instruction.

“These new and/or returning programs are in direct response to the needs of our regional economy and the communities we serve,” Hickox said. “We work every day to help WWCC students realize their dreams.”

Founded in 1967, Walla Walla Community College’s mission is to inspire all students to discover their potential and achieve their goals by providing relevant, equitable, and innovative learning opportunities and services.