PCC Recognized as a Top 2-Year College for Latinx Students

Less than a week after the conclusion of Hispanic Heritage Month, Pasadena City College is being recognized as one of the nation’s top two-year colleges for Latinx students.

In the annual survey of federal data published by Hispanic Outlook in Education Magazine, PCC ranks as California’s #1 college in granting associate degrees to Latina/o/x students (#3 nationally), and the #8 California college in Hispanic enrollment (#13 nationally).

“These data demonstrate the extent of our service to the Latinx community,” said Dr. Erika Endrijonas, superintendent/president of Pasdena City College. “Yet again, we can see that we are one of the best colleges in California for access and success for Latinx students. Everyone at PCC has worked hard to achieve this honor, and I’m so proud of their work.”

The listing is the latest recognition of PCC’s service to Latinx students, who make up roughly 51 percent of the college’s student body. The college has been designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education, opening the door to federal grant programs. PCC has received seven such grants over the last 15 years, leveraging these investments to start pilot programs and new service models for all students. The college most recently received a $3 million, five-year grant through this program.

Other services for students in the Latinx community include the Puente, MESA, and MAS2 programs, among others; culturally competent counseling and academic coaching targeted toward communities of color; career services and coaching through the Robert G. Freeman Center for Career and Completion; and support services including the Lancer Pantry, housing support, and social services referrals.

The Hispanic Outlook ranking reflects data for the 2018-19 academic year. The magazine draws its data from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics.