Two CT Community Colleges Among Top in Nation to Advance Opportunities for Low-Income Students

Naugatuck Valley Community College (NVCC) and Three Rivers Community College (TRCC) are among the top 25 community colleges nationwide that advance opportunities for low-income students. The U.S. Department of Education ranked the public two-year colleges for their effectiveness in serving low-income students with relatively high outcomes. NVCC and TRCC are part of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system.

Naugatuck Valley enrolls 41% of low-income students, with graduates averaging $34,100 in earnings 10 years after enrollment, and 75% of borrowers successfully paying down their loans three years after graduation. Three Rivers enrolls 45% of low-income students, with graduates averaging $31,700 in earnings 10 years after enrollment, and 74% of borrowers successfully paying down their loans three years after graduation.

“NVCC celebrates our students with joy and with a grateful heart for their achievements as we praise the contributions of our faculty and staff to their success,” said NVCC President Daisy Cocco De Filippis. “The college is making a difference in the lives of students, communities and Connecticut. I am so proud of our community colleges and the powerful work we are doing for the state.”

“We are delighted that TRCC can make a college degree a reality for so many area residents with low incomes,” said TRCC President Mary Ellen Jukoski. “The majority of our students are part-time and hold more than one job while still attending college. We provide a very affordable education for these determined, dedicated students in a very caring, nurturing environment that supports their success.”

The complete list of the top 25 community colleges can be found here.