Event celebrates new 40,000 square-foot, $9 million facility serving region
Washington, Iowa (October 2, 2014)–Kirkwood Community College will hold a grand opening and open house to mark the completion of the new Washington County Regional Center on Thursday, October 9, from 3-6 p.m. Washington county leaders, college officials and members of the community are expected to attend the event.
The center, which opened on August 25, houses traditional college credit classes, concurrent credit academy classes for students still in high school, high school equivalency, adult literacy and English as a second language programs as well as non-credit coursework/training and certification through Kirkwood’s Continuing Education programs. The programming was developed with input and support from partner school districts and from the area’s employers, to craft educational opportunities tailored to regional employment demands.
“When we officially opened our doors to students, we introduced multiple career pathways and skills needed for today’s employees,” said Washington County Regional Director Tera Pickens. “Washington County Regional Center is another shining example of Kirkwood’s commitment to provide accessible, quality education and to prepare students for what’s next. We’re helping to create the pipeline and future workforce for our region within the walls of Washington County Regional. We are really proud of that fact.”
Donations and community support have been a major theme for the center from the start and still continue. The first contribution from the community came in the form of the land donated by Jim and Margaret Dunn and family, longtime Kirkwood supporters and residents of Washington. However, the Washington County community has also come together to support the center financially as well. So far over $515,000 has been donated to support the students at the new facility.
*****EVENT*****
What: Washington County Regional Center Grand Opening and Open House
When: Thursday, October 9, 3-6 p.m.
Where: 2192 Lexington Blvd., Washington, Iowa