Dr. Ellen Kennedy
Dr. Hara Charlier
Community College Month Op-ed
Why Berkshire Community College Is Essential to Our Community
By Dr. Ellen Kennedy, BCC President and Dr. Hara Charlier, Incoming BCC President
There are many reasons why Berkshire Community College is a critical part of the fabric of Berkshire County, but perhaps nothing demonstrates our contribution to the community more than our ability to provide a trained, ready workforce. BCC is deeply connected to the needs of our Berkshire County employers, and we tailor our academic programs to specifically meet their needs. Our nursing program, for example, trains professionals in a wide variety of nursing capacities that strive to keep up with an ever-growing demand. Meanwhile, BCC's workforce training certificates cover a wide range of employment areas in high demand, including social services, hospitality, manufacturing, engineering, education, computers and IT, business, Commercial Driver's License (CDL) holders and more.
Equally importantly — and especially with the advent of free community college in Massachusetts — we attract students from diverse backgrounds who are either entering the workforce for the first time or who seek to improve their skills and grow their careers. Indeed, free tuition has directly affected the ability of students to succeed across the Commonwealth, and BCC is no exception. According to BCC's October 2025 enrollment report, our student headcount is up 13%, and earned credits are also up 13%. The number of students pursuing degrees is up 17% over fall 2024, and up a stunning 73% over fall 2022.
The mission of a community college begins with access, and no community college creates access more effectively than BCC. Its robust, inclusive culture attracts students from across the Berkshires, the Commonwealth and even the world, and that diverse student body is what makes the College special. Yet these students cannot remain enrolled without the resources they need to succeed. This is an area in which BCC truly shines. From tutoring and mentorship programs to providing essential needs like food and transportation, BCC makes it possible for students to complete degrees or certificates in as much time as they need, often for those who never thought it possible.
One of the most effective programs at BCC is called SUCCESS, which is designed to support student achievement. While SUCCESS is open to all students, it is particularly geared towards economically disadvantaged students, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities. SUCCESS includes everything from academic advising and skills workshops to transfer support and visits to four-year colleges. As data shows, SUCCESS is an incredibly impactful program. Most importantly, students who interact with a SUCCESS coach at least three times have a retention rate of 75%.
But there's more to attracting and retaining students than meeting their academic needs. We must also meet their essential needs. In the last academic year, more than 200 students met with a coordinator for urgent non-academic needs, including food, housing and childcare. In addition, more than 350 students have visited BCC's food pantry, the Campus Cupboard, for a total of nearly 900 visits. Many BCC students depend on the Campus Cupboard not only to feed themselves, but those in their household as well. None of this would be possible without the support of our generous donors and community partners.
Finally, we underscore the reciprocal relationship we have with our wonderful Berkshires community. When we held our Community Fest celebration last summer, we were overwhelmed with the participation of more than 2,000 people, which welcomed BCC students, faculty, staff, and community members alike to enjoy a full day of activities. We were truly honored by the outpouring of support. Remember, though, we welcome the community with open arms all year. There are so many ways to become involved beyond enrolling as a student — from opening a gym membership at Paterson Field House to attending plays, musical performances and art exhibitions. And the BCC chapter of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), designed for people over 50 years old, offers an incredible variety of lectures, courses, outdoor activities, author talks, trips, and special tours of Berkshire cultural attractions. Many of these events are free and do not require membership.
When Berkshire Community College was established in 1960 as the first community college in Massachusetts, its goal was to provide access to higher education for all. Today, that goal is stronger than ever. As we transition to new leadership of the College, we are mindful that students with a bright future help to create communities with a bright future. We could not be more energized by the commitment of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the ever-growing relationship with the Berkshires community we are so honored to serve.