Press Releases 2009

CONTACT: Mary Planding,
Director, Marketing & Communications
(831) 479-6158
mary.plandings [at] cabrillo.edu

February 20, 2009

STATE BUDGET PASSES AT LAST!
ACCESS TO CABRILLO COLLEGE PRESERVED
Cabrillo College Salutes Governor Schwarzenegger and Legislature

APTOS, CA – With the approval of an 18-month budget plan yesterday by the California State Legislature, Cabrillo College can continue to focus on its core mission—providing Santa Cruz County residents with the education and training they need.
“In this time of economic crisis, we salute Governor Schwarzenegger and the legislature for their actions to preserve access to higher education for all Californians,” stated Cabrillo College President Brian King. “Students are coming in unprecedented numbers to Cabrillo—from newly graduated high school seniors to individuals who were recently laid off to people who want to increase their skills in order to preserve their jobs. In prioritizing community college access, the legislature has sent a clear message that community colleges are a major key to turning the economy around.”

Cabrillo College expects to serve more than 17,000 students by the end of its current academic year—an increase of 6% over the previous year—setting a new record for the highest enrollment in the college’s 50-year history.
“The last thing we want to do is to turn people away at this crucial time when they need what Cabrillo provides. Unfortunately, the cuts we’ve already experienced this year are forcing us to do just that,” said King, “We will watch the special election in May very closely. If the revenue measures don’t pass, and if the $11.4 billion in borrowing doesn’t happen, we’re going to be forced into making even more cuts that will result in fewer class offerings, larger class sizes, longer wait times to see counselors and financial aid advisors, and delaying important maintenance and renovation projects.”

The resolution of the budget is expected to let Cabrillo complete its work on the Arts Education Classrooms project and the new Health and Wellness Center.

About Cabrillo College
Cabrillo College is a leading California community college serving Santa Cruz County with locations in Aptos, Scotts Valley and Watsonville. It is ranked #1 in transfers to UC Santa Cruz. Founded in 1959, the college offers over 100 academic and career technical education programs that serve multiple educational goals such as A.A. and A.S. degrees, certificates of achievement, skills certificates, transfer to four-year institutions or for lifelong learning and personal enrichment. Its mission is to enhance the intellectual, cultural, and economic vitality of our diverse community by assisting all students in their quest for lifelong learning and success in an ever-changing world.