WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On behalf of its nearly 1,200 member institutions, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) applauds President Barack Obama's State of the Union Address.  

"President Obama's emphasis on both short- and long-term economic growth leads directly to the nation's community colleges," said AACC President and CEO George R. Boggs. "We are heartened that the President's speech reaffirmed his commitment to revitalizing the nation's community colleges and for recognizing that community colleges serve as career pathways to so many Americans."  AACC strongly supports the education legislation passed by the House of Representatives that the President urged the Senate to pass as well.

Boggs also commended the speech's emphasis on the Pell Grant program and the American Opportunity Tax Credit, a key source of college financing.  "In calling on colleges to 'get serious' about cutting their costs, the President speaks to a strength community colleges have long provided – quality, affordable education and training."

The American Association of Community Colleges represents the nation's almost 1,200 regionally accredited community, junior and technical colleges and their more than 11 million students.  Community colleges are the largest and fastest growing sector of higher education, enrolling close to half (44 percent) of all U.S. undergraduates.

SOURCE American Association of Community Colleges

RELATED LINKS
http://www.aacc.nche.edu