Today marked an important milestone for the Community College of Aurora as the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education approved every item presented by our institution.
Among the approvals were CCA's Fiscal Year 2027 budget, a new Bachelor of Applied Science in Special Education, and strategic investments in campus infrastructure and safety. Each of these actions represents more than a vote of approval. They represent an investment in students, workforce development, and the long-term strength of our community.
One outcome I am particularly proud of is our financial performance. Earlier this year, we projected that CCA would close Fiscal Year 2026 with a fund balance of approximately $2.8 million. Today, due to record enrollment growth, disciplined stewardship of resources, and the collective efforts of our entire college community, we are projected to finish the year with a $14.9 million fund balance.
Strong finances are not the goal. They are the fuel that allows us to expand opportunity, strengthen student support, invest in our people, modernize our campuses, and respond to the evolving needs of employers and communities across our region.
The momentum at CCA is a reflection of what is possible when faculty, staff, students, trustees, community partners, and industry leaders unite around a shared mission of economic mobility and student success.
While there is still much work ahead, moments like these remind us that purposeful leadership, strategic investment, and a relentless focus on students can create transformational results.
The future of the Community College of Aurora remains bright, and I am grateful to everyone who continues to make this work possible.
— Dr. Mordecai Brownlee
