MARIETTA, OHIO — Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) is joining community colleges across the state this month to highlight the essential role that two-year colleges play in preparing Ohioans for in-demand careers and providing an affordable pathway to higher education.
Community College Month, celebrated in April by proclamation of Gov. Mike DeWine, is an opportunity to raise awareness about the economic, academic, and workforce impact of community colleges
“Now more than ever, Ohio’s community colleges play a vital role in bringing partners together to strengthen our communities,” said WSCO President Dr. Sarah Parker. “At Washington State College of Ohio, we are committed to working alongside our regional employers, schools, and community organizations to create a more connected educational ecosystem. By aligning our efforts, reducing duplication, and focusing on shared goals, we are able to better support students, meet workforce needs, and create opportunities that benefit our entire community.”
Each year, Ohio’s 22 community colleges serve approximately 250,000 students. This includes high school students earning college credit through Ohio’s College Credit Plus program, recent high school graduates, working adults, veterans, career changers, and adults seeking short-term training to quickly gain new skills or advance in their careers. Students can earn industry-recognized certificates, associate degrees, or begin a bachelor’s degree before transferring to a four-year university.
The combination of affordability and workforce alignment sets Ohio’s community colleges apart, said Avi Zaffini, president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges. “Our colleges serve as Ohio’s top workforce partner and deliver the best value in higher education,” Zaffini said. “They respond quickly to employer needs, offer education close to home, and create clear pathways into good-paying jobs or on to a four-year degree.”
Ohio’s community colleges are widely recognized as the state’s top workforce partner and the best value in higher education, Zaffini added. Through close collaboration with more than 1,000 employers statewide, community colleges align education and training with real-world job needs across healthcare, advanced manufacturing, information technology, logistics, and the skilled trades
During April’s Community College Month celebration, WSCO is also celebrating student excellence. WSCO is proud to announce that Jocelyn Erb, Tracey Sawtelle, Rose Mary, and Sara Strahler have been named to the 2026 All-Ohio Academic Team, a statewide honor recognizing outstanding achievement in academics, leadership, and community service. Notably, Jocelyn Erb earned First Team distinction in the Transfer Pathway, and Tracey Sawtelle earned First Team distinction in the Workforce Pathway. Rose Mary was named to the Second Team (Workforce Pathway), and Sara Strahler earned Third Team honors (Transfer Pathway). All four students will be recognized at the Statehouse in Columbus.
The All-Ohio Academic Team includes high-performing students who are planning to transfer to four-year institutions as well as those who intend to move directly into the workforce. Honorees are nominated by their colleges and recognized alongside peers from community colleges across Ohio during Community College Month.
Throughout April, WSCO will also host Community College Month activities, including a social media campaign that will highlight alumni success, unique program offerings, and employer partnerships. Community members are encouraged to participate and share their stories highlighting the impact of community colleges.
To learn more about programs at WSCO, visit wsco.edu.
