News

Southeast Community College saw a significant fall enrollment increase, exceeding 10,000 students for the first time in over a decade. This milestone marks resounding growth from the previous fall semester, demonstrating SCC's unwavering commitment to meeting the demands of the skilled workforce by providing transformative educational opportunities. Although the enrollment figures are preliminary, the College had 10,584 students enrolled on all three campuses and in its dual credit program as of Tuesday, Aug. 27, which represents an estimated 9% increase from the previous fall semester.

“This is always an exciting time at SCC as we help new and returning students pursue their educational journeys,” said Dr. Paul Illich, SCC president. “This enrollment increase is consistent with our transformative initiative to produce a skilled workforce in order to strengthen our communities.”

For the first-time in SCC’s history, student housing is available on its Beatrice, Lincoln and Milford campuses. Woodhaven Hall is the first residence hall on the Lincoln Campus which opened in the Spring 2024. Offering on-campus living enhances student-life as the College creates destinations for its students.

“Many of our student housing facilities are at full capacity, including our newest residence hall on the Lincoln Campus,” Illich said. “This development is consistent with our vision to create destinations and the highest quality learning climates. When you step onto the Beatrice, Lincoln or Milford campuses or one of our learning centers, it is a completely different experience for our students than it was 10 years ago.”

Since Illich’s arrival in 2014, SCC has made significant strides to improve its academic programs, campus infrastructure and student support services. Highlights include:

• The addition of 26 new programs and awards from 2015-2021.
• Successful conversion from a Quarter to Semester Calendar system in Fall 2019.
• Implementation of an enrollment management model that involves building course schedules based on course demand.
• Opening six learning centers throughout the 15-county service area.
• Incorporating a capital advancement function at the institution to build new facilities and improve current structures. Some facilities include the new Health Sciences Building in Lincoln, the Crete Carrier Diesel Technology & Welding Center in Milford, and the Academic Excellence Center in Beatrice.

“Our enrollment increase is a powerful reminder of the importance of ensuring everyone in our service area has access to the life-changing benefits of higher education,” Illich said. “SCC’s transformative efforts would not be possible without the support of community and industry leaders. We have been fortunate to have them committed to working with us as we address the skilled workforce gap in our area.”

Jennifer Snyder
Communications Specialist
402-323-3393
jsnyder@southeast.edu