Dear Highline College,

As we complete the second week of our summer quarter, I want to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for each of you and the work you do every day in service of our students.
Whether you teach, advise, support, maintain our facilities, provide technology services, welcome visitors, manage operations, or contribute in countless other ways, your work matters. Because of your commitment, expertise, and care, our students are able to pursue their goals and create new opportunities for themselves and their families.

We are also seeing encouraging signs that our collective efforts are making a difference. Overall, FTE is slightly up this summer in our tuition-generating programs, which does not include ELCAP.

Related data reflects the following, to date:

• Tuition Bearing State FTEs (less ELCAP): 1,308
• Difference in Tuition Bearing State FTEs from the Previous Year: +22
• % Difference in Tuition Bearing State FTEs from the Previous Year: +1.7%

This is a positive sign and an indication that students continue to choose our college as a place to pursue their educational and career goals.

This week also brings the Fourth of July holiday and a long weekend for many of us. Beyond the traditions and gatherings that often accompany this time of year, Independence Day offers an opportunity for reflection.

I am mindful that the promise of opportunity and independence is not experienced equally by everyone. That is one reason the work of community colleges remains so important. Every day, we help open doors, remove barriers, and create pathways for students seeking to build better futures for themselves and their families. Through education, we expand opportunity and strengthen the communities we serve.

At a time when the challenges around us can sometimes feel overwhelming, I am encouraged by what I see across our college. We truly are a community of people dedicated to helping others succeed.

In higher education, progress is measured in many ways—enrollment, completion, and student success among them. But behind every metric are people: faculty and staff who show up each day committed to helping students achieve their goals. Thank you for the role you play in that important work.

I hope you find time this weekend to rest, reconnect with family and friends, and reflect on the many ways your work makes a difference in the lives of our students and our community.

Thank you for all that you do, and best wishes for a safe and meaningful holiday weekend.

Kind regards,
Dr. Jamilyn Penn
Interim President