April Recognized as Community College Month, Highlighting the Importance of Access to Higher Education
Posted on April 4, 2025 by Río Hondo College | Category: Homepage News,Press Releases
(Whittier, Calif.) – Río Hondo College (RHC) is proud to join institutions nationwide in celebrating April as Community College Month, recognizing the vital role community colleges play in expanding access to higher education and workforce development. With a 100 percent acceptance rate, Río Hondo College ensures higher education is accessible to all, providing students with an affordable pathway to academic and career success.
Community colleges represent a uniquely American ideal: accessible, high-quality education for all. Río Hondo College embodies this ideal by offering a diverse array of programs, from associate degrees and cutting-edge bachelor’s programs in Automotive Technology and Electronic Digital Instrument, to seamless transfer pathways to four-year universities, and vital workforce training.
Recognizing that student success extends beyond the classroom, RHC provides robust support services, addressing critical needs like food insecurity, housing, childcare and more. These resources are designed to dismantle obstacles, enabling students to thrive academically and personally. Without community colleges, many students would be unable to pursue higher education due to financial limitations and other challenges.
One of the most significant financial advantages of attending a community college is the cost savings. At Río Hondo College, students benefit from the Río Promise program, which provides eligible students with two years of tuition-free education, making it easier for them to complete their degrees and certificates without financial burden.
“Community colleges are the lifeline to economic and social mobility with access to higher education and career ready education in our communities,” said RHC Board of Trustees President Oscar Valladares.
RHC is a powerful engine for regional economic growth, equipping students with the skills needed for high-demand careers and ensuring they secure an affordable living wage. By aligning educational programs with the needs of the local economy, RHC fosters upward social mobility and strengthens the community’s foundation.
In the fall of 2023, RHC served over 18,000 students and awarded approximately 5,000 degrees and certificates in 2024, underscoring its impact on student success and workforce readiness.
“Río Hondo College is committed to ensuring that every student has the resources, support and high-quality education they need to succeed,” said Superintendent/President Marilyn Flores, Ph.D.
To provide flexibility for students balancing work and personal responsibilities, the College offers classes every eight weeks, with both online and in-person options. This approach allows students to create schedules that fit their individual needs while advancing toward their academic and career goals.
As Community College Month is celebrated throughout April, Río Hondo College encourages prospective students, community members and local businesses to recognize the essential role of community colleges in shaping the future.
Community members are encouraged to join the conversation: Share your Río Hondo College story on social media using #riohondocollege.
For more information regarding enrollment, programs and student support services, visit riohondo.edu.
