Coffeyville Community College draws to a close a Title III “Strengthening Institutions Program” grant that began approximately six years ago.  In the fall of 2008 the college launched its first year of this grant designed to create technical Programs that would strengthen CCC and benefit the community.

This five year program was designed to create three new or enhanced technical programs at the Coffeyville Technical campus.  Through the Title III grant three programs were developed: Construction Technology, Precision Machining, and Information Technology.  The total amount awarded to CCC was approximately two million dollars.

Don Lind was hired as the Project Coordiantor, Waneta Davis served as the Activity Coordinator, Lisa Walthall as the Project’s Administrative assistant.  Clarence Ray was hired to launch CCC’s Construction Technology program.   Cleo Ruark was hired to teach the Precision Machining curriculum and Shawn Parker was hired to launch a new Information Technology program.

Nearly fifty percent of the grant monies were designated as salaries and fringe benefits with the remaining share going to purchase needed equipment and supplies with which to launch these programs.

In addition to equipment, supplies, and salaries, the grant provided $75,000 a year for the first four years and $95,000 in year five to be endowed in the CCC Foundation with a dollar for dollar match by the foundation.  With the grant funding and the dollar for dollar match, the grant initiative provided almost $800,000 for the endowed scholarship fund.  The interest from the endowed scholarship fund will provide scholarships for the technical programs in the future.  Although the grant activities ended September 30th, the grant has provided a significant impact to the local economy and will benefit the Coffeyville community for years to come.