HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College

Background

Established on February 14, 1964, HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, holds the distinction of being the first and largest community college in Pennsylvania. With a mission to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality education, HACC serves a diverse student body across its five campuses located in Gettysburg, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon, and York, as well as through a comprehensive virtual learning platform. The college offers over 100 career and transfer associate degree, certificate, and diploma programs, catering to approximately 12,000 students. Additionally, HACC provides workforce development and continuing education training to more than 16,000 individuals annually, underscoring its significant role in regional education and economic development.

Key Strategic Focus

HACC's strategic focus centers on delivering comprehensive educational programs that align with the evolving needs of the workforce and community. The college emphasizes flexibility and accessibility through various learning modalities, including in-person classes across its campuses and a robust virtual learning environment. Key areas of specialization include health sciences, business, technology, liberal arts, public services, and science and mathematics. HACC actively engages in partnerships with local businesses and organizations to develop programs that address specific industry demands, thereby enhancing employment opportunities for its graduates.

Financials and Funding

As a public institution, HACC's funding comprises state appropriations, tuition and fees, and private contributions. The HACC Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1985, plays a pivotal role in securing private and corporate revenues to support the college. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, the Foundation distributed over $500,000 in scholarship funding to 441 students and provided more than $71,000 in emergency assistance to 127 students. Additionally, the Foundation allocated $281,008.74 in tuition giveaway funding to 194 students, demonstrating a strong commitment to student success and financial support.

Pipeline Development

HACC continually develops and refines its academic programs to meet emerging industry needs. Recent initiatives include the expansion of the Welding Program to provide training to area high school students at the Harrisburg and York campuses. The college also introduced the "College Through Work" program in partnership with Mid Penn Bank, offering high school graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience in the banking sector while earning a Certificate of Banking and an associate degree without incurring educational expenses.

Technological Platform and Innovation

HACC leverages advanced technological platforms to enhance educational delivery and operational efficiency. The college utilizes a range of technologies, including:

Autodesk Revit: For computer-aided design and graphics.

SAP: For customer relationship management.

LexisNexis: For legal solutions.

Python: For programming and development.

reCAPTCHA: For security measures.

Siteimprove: For web analytics.

Apache and Nginx: For web server management.

These technologies support HACC's commitment to providing a modern and efficient learning environment for students and faculty.

Leadership Team

HACC's leadership team is dedicated to advancing the college's mission and strategic goals. Key executives include:

John J. "Ski" Sygielski: President and CEO, leading the institution with a focus on innovation and community engagement.

A. B.: Chief Executive, overseeing strategic initiatives and operations.

A. H.: Vice President of Inclusion and Diversity and Title IX Coordinator, promoting an inclusive and equitable campus environment.

R. R. S.: Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, enhancing student services and enrollment strategies.

These leaders bring a wealth of experience and dedication to HACC's educational mission.

Leadership Changes

In January 2024, Sandoe retired from his roles as HACC's Vice President of Finance and the HACC Foundation's Treasurer, marking a significant transition in the college's financial leadership.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The community college sector in Pennsylvania is characterized by a diverse range of institutions offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs. The market is influenced by factors such as demographic shifts, economic conditions, and evolving workforce demands. Community colleges play a crucial role in providing accessible education and serving as a bridge to four-year institutions or direct entry into the workforce.

Competitor Analysis

HACC operates in a competitive landscape alongside several notable institutions, including:

Pennsylvania College of Technology: Affiliated with Pennsylvania State University, offering applied technology education with certificate, associate, baccalaureate, and master's degree programs.