El Paso Community College (EPCC) President Dr. William Serrata updated the institution's status with his annual State of the College address last Thursday. The presentation allowed Dr. Serrata to speak on EPCC's recent milestones and unveil the college's roadmap for 2025-2029, emphasizing student success and continued community engagement. "Exciting things are happening at the institution. Return on investment for students and credentials of value has never been higher," said EPCC Vice President of Instruction and Workforce Education Dr. Steven Smith, as reported by EPCC news.
The strategic plan highlighted by President Serrata was centered on four pillars: Entry, Progress, Completion, and Career, aiming to increase students' access and drive their success. "The goals outlined in this plan renew our commitment to a laser focus on student success, guide us into the future, and reinforce who we are - EPCC," Dr. Serrata emphasized, according to the EPCC news release. Notably, the college has seen enrollment soar to a six-year high with approximately 26,100 students enrolled, moving forward from the decreases likely caused initially by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Apart from the strategic vision, other achievements were spotlighted, such as the award of over 600 Texas High School Equivalency Certificates and the launch of 27 new credential programs in fields like Biotechnology and Nursing Assistants. These enhancements speak to EPCC's alignment with state educational initiatives like Building a Talent Strong Texas and fostering meaningful business and industry partnerships. Dr. Serrata also proudly mentioned Campestre Elementary School's forthcoming graduation, as the first high school graduate of the EPCC College Bound program that started in 2013. This milestone demonstrates the tangible results of extended community involvement.
Budget stability was another touchstone of the address, with EPCC boasting the lowest tax rate among local taxing entities and maintaining steady rates since before the pandemic. Dr. Serrata assured attendees that there were no imminent plans to raise these rates. Moreover, dual enrollment programs were celebrated for their 62% postsecondary credential or graduation rate, significantly exceeding the national average. The president did not forget to acknowledge departing staff members, including Dr. Steven Smith and Rachel Viramontes, for their long-standing contributions to EPCC. Both are set to retire in January 2026.
Before the formal address, EPCC facilitated a Professional Development Day, providing staff the chance to enhance their skills through workshops and training sessions to bolster their abilities to serve students better. With the conclusion of his address, Dr. Serrata's presentation, which details the growth and the strategic outlook for EPCC, is made accessible to the public and can be viewed via a link provided by EPCC news.
