CC has received a Career Connected Campus Designation from the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE). This honor recognizes institutions that excel in integrating academic curriculum with work-based learning experiences, empowering students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in high-demand, high-wage careers. And it is further proof of the lasting benefits of a CC education.
Dean of the College and Chief Operating Officer Pedro de Araujo says receiving this designation is a testament to the incredible work of college faculty, the Career Center, and the educational model of the Block Plan.
“The uniqueness of the Block Plan, where students learn how to solve complex problems in a short period of time, is the most effective way to prepare students to succeed in an ever so fluid and challenging labor market,” says de Araujo. “Colorado College truly prepares students to be well-rounded citizens and ready for jobs that don’t even currently exist.”
CC is one of seven colleges and universities in the state to receive the inaugural, three-year designation, including Colorado School of Mines, University of Denver, CSU Global, University of Colorado Denver, Regis University, and Pueblo Community College.
“As we kick off Career Development Month, I am thrilled to announce the new Career Connected Campus Designation which highlights our commitment to connecting students with the skills needed to get good-paying and in-demand jobs,” says Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “By focusing on practical skills and career readiness, these campuses equip students to thrive in the exciting and innovative sectors of the future, helping us meet the evolving needs of our thriving economy.”
As part of the Workforce Determinants of Student Success initiative, the Career Connected Campus Designation builds on the Governor’s existing Social Determinants of Student Success work and aims to emphasize career preparation. The CDHE requires institutions to center equity in their career-connected learning work and share promising practices that enable all students to benefit from it.
“We are proud of the strides we’ve made in the apprenticeship, internship, and work-based learning spaces, but also recognize there is still work to be done,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, CDHE Executive Director. “These opportunities align with the needs of Colorado’s high-growth industries. The Career Connected Designation underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to high-quality education and training for all residents, preparing them for success in the modern workforce.”
2 responses to “CC Recognized with New Career Connected Campus Designation”
What are some examples of this program?
Hi Joel,
This designation is not for one specific program in particular, but recognizes how CC prepares students for their future careers in a multitude of ways. There is career-connected and experiential learning in most of our courses. Along with this, many of the academic departments have major-specific career-focused programming. The CC Career Center also provides multiple programs and resources to set students up for success after graduation.