SANFORD - A Midwest Higher Education Compact (MHEC) research brief recently listed Central Carolina Community College among the most effective two-year colleges in the country, and the fourth most effective in North Carolina.

The MHEC is a long-established statutorily-created consortium of Midwest colleges and universities that aims to enhance higher education opportunity and performance through collaboration and resource sharing. Its efforts include research and the analysis of public policy as well as administrative functions and other initiatives. Although it primarily serves a 12-state region, the present study includes institutions from all 50 states for three years of data.

CCCC ranks "Very High" in Effectiveness, meaning that its actual graduation rate is considerably above anticipated rates for first-time, full-time, credential-seeking students.

"We are extremely pleased that the MHEC report recognizes CCCC as being one of the most effective two-year colleges in the country," said Julian Philpott, chairman of the CCCC Board of Trustees. "This recognition reflects the dedication and energy our administration and faculty give to the college and its students on a daily basis and the outstanding efforts our students are exhibiting to pursue their goals.

"The report clearly indicates that CCCC offers a quality educational opportunity for students," said Philpott. "Our administration, faculty and students are to be congratulated for their hard work that has resulted in this recognition of excellence for CCCC."

"We are so very proud of our students' outstanding achievements, as substantiated by this national study," said Dr. Linda Scuiletti, CCCC's Associate Vice President of Student Learning and Strategic Planning.

"Central Carolina's faculty and staff are remarkably dedicated and energized in support of student learning and success. Our students' accomplishments are the fruit of our life's work!"

For more information on Central Carolina Community College, visit www.cccc.edu.