LCC breaks enrollment record by 7.55 percent

A record 3,916 students enrolled in classes at Laredo Community College this first summer session, marking a 7.55 percent increase over last summer's first session enrollment of 3,641.

This marks another record enrollment this academic year for the college.

"This is exciting news for the college and our community," Felix Gamez, LCC Dean of Admissions and Enrollment Management said. "As we all know, if we have an educated community, the community is going to benefit in general."

And affordable tuition and fees continue to make higher education accessible in tough economic conditions, added Gamez. Laredo's unemployment rate sits at 8.5 percent, encouraging many people who have lost their jobs to cut back on expenses and to seek a low-cost, quality education to enhance their skills or obtain training in another field.

Other factors that contributed to the upsurge in enrollment involved several changes in college departments that work directly with students.

Once a combined department, the Admissions and Registration Center was split into separate centers to provide better customer service to prospective and current students. The Admissions Center will manage student records, while the Registration Center will guide students with all registration processes.

"LCC recognizes that customer service is a number one priority and has taken active measures to provide that for students," Gamez added.

Advising and registration for summer session 2 and fall classes is ongoing. For a listing of courses being offered, visit the college website at www.laredo.edu. First class day for the second summer session is July 8, and fall classes begin August 23.

For more information about LCC courses or for registration, contact LCC's Registration Center at 721-5109 at the Fort McIntosh Campus or 794-4108 at the South Campus.