Dear Faculty and Staff:

Governor Parson has created an economic incentive plan aimed at encouraging General Motors to expand its automotive plant in Wentzville. If the plan is approved, GM is expected to invest more than $700 million in the St. Charles facility. Earlier this month, the Missouri House members passed the package, but the Senate has yet to take a vote.  I was invited, (along with city and county leaders throughout St. Charles), to a press conference with the Governor on May 8 in Wentzville and May 13 in Jefferson City. 

You may be aware that SCC established a partnership with the GM plant in 1988. More than 2,000 employees have received training through the college. The plant currently employs approximately 3,500 workers. For the past 21 years, GM has sponsored the Robotics Challenge at SCC for middle-and-high-school students pursuing STEM careers.

Although we currently do not know the outcome of this incentive plan, I have good news to share regarding the budget. HB 3 (Higher Education funding bill) was Truly Agreed to and Finally Passed on May 10. The budget will provide $18.9 million for the MoExcels program, including a $1.5 million allocation to St. Charles Community College. You may remember that SCC was left off the list for MoExcel funding in the Governor’s original budget. However, due to support from our local representatives, SCC was added to the list of approved projects. Our proposal calls for building a Center of Excellence for Healthy Living that will address critical healthcare and workforce skills gaps by creating an innovative approach to aligning the areas of Nursing, Agriculture, and Bioscience.

Yesterday, we held the annual Medaling Ceremony for graduating military veterans and service members. I am proud of this SCC tradition; it amazes me to see the hard work of our students pay off at such a wonderful event. My appreciation is extended to Andrew Gates for his efforts in facilitating another successful ceremony.

We also hosted a special lunch yesterday for the recipients of the President’s Award: Andrea Compton and Vicky Herbel. Congratulations to both of these extraordinary employees!

Lastly, it was great fun to see you at last week’s faculty and staff appreciation BBQ luncheon. Attendance was plentiful, and the food was delicious. Thank you to everyone who had a hand in planning and executing such a joyful event.