FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 6, 2017
Media Contact
Dolores M. Bernal
(O) 510-986-6922
(C) 415-910-4659
(OAKLAND, CA) California’s Department of Finance announced on Tuesday, April 4 that Laney College was among 14 institutions to receive a $1 million Innovation in Higher Education Award from the state’s $25 million special fund. The award promotes innovative planning at community colleges throughout California.
Laney was selected for its ingenious 5-year proposal to help diverse students engaged in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, succeed by providing them with greater access to high quality, touch-technology and SMART classroom cyber-learning environments beginning in the gateway discipline of biology.
“This award will help bridge the digital divide that exists in many of the communities we serve,” said Laney College President Tammeil Gilkerson.
“At Laney, we’re about preparing our students for the real world and real jobs, and this award is one of many that can help us ensure all students receive a quality education that can lead to high-demand jobs in technology, biotechnology, bio manufacturing, and others,” Gilkerson added.
“I extend my congratulations to all of the winning districts and colleges for earning this prestigious and well-deserved award,” said California Community Colleges Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley. “Boosting completion rates and reducing college costs are among the highest priorities for all three higher education systems in California. The schools recognized today are leading the way when it comes to making these twin goals a reality for this state.”
Innovation in Higher Education Awards highlight California’s interest in community college efforts to redesign curriculum and instruction; allow students to make progress toward completion of degrees and credentials. And, address financial need, including by increasing the number of students who apply for financial aid or reducing the costs of books and supplies.
For a list of all colleges that won awards go here: http://www.dof.ca.gov/programs/Education/Index_Innovation_Awards.html
Located in the heart of Oakland, Laney is one of four colleges in the Peralta Community College District. Laney offers over 100 high-quality academic and career technical education programs to an estimated 13,000 students.
To learn more about Laney College visit, www.laney.edu.
