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New community college opens in Bellefonte

By OLIVIA SUYDAM 3 min read

BELLEFONTE -- Pennsylvania Highlands Community College continues to branch out and touch the minds of many as they opened their seventh location, in Bellefonte, just in time for the fall 2024 semester.

"We believe the College plays a vital role in workforce development and significantly contributes to the region's economic growth," shared Raymond Weible Jr., executive director of marketing and communications.

According to Weible, bids for the new facility were opened on April 12, with the bid awarded April 16. Official work began on May 6 and was completed on July 5.

"Choosing Bellefonte as a location offered several advantages," shared Weible, crediting the Bellefonte Borough administration's "enthusiasm and collaboration" as they welcome the idea of adding a community college to the area.

Weible also shared that due to Bellefonte being centrally located, there is easy access to major interstates and roads, ensuring convenience for everyone as well as affordable real estate prices that "provide a cost-effective opportunity for expansion."

On Aug. 16, the college unveiled its new location with a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by an open house event.

In a press release, Penn Highlands President Steve Nunez said he was "honored to witness this milestone that was several years in the making." He spoke of the "commitment to affordable, accessible, and quality education, to community enrichment, and to local economic development" and how those values remain unwavering.

Nunez also thanked the many partners that made this possible including CBICC, the Borough of Bellefonte, and the Bellefonte Intervalley Chamber of Commerce.

At the event, Bellefonte borough manager and College Board of Trustees member Ralph Stewart shared that "it is going to be great to see Penn Highlands help people get the education and training they need in order to be competitive and to thrive."

The facility officially opened in August 2024, offering "a range of in-person, transfer-ready courses," including English, microcomputer applications, history, public speaking, and more. As well as in-person classes, Penn Highlands also offers a variety of online degrees and certificates.

According to Weible, Penn Highlands has "transformed the second floor of the Match Factory in Bellefonte, into a state-of-the-art educational space."

The new facility spans 5,200 square feet, and features three classrooms, a computer lab, a conference room, and five offices for faculty and staff, along with a dedicated area for student activities.

With engineering services from Hoffman Leakey as well as general construction, electrical work, plumbing, furniture, and computer equipment the total cost of the project ended up being over $200,000.

"Everyone in the area has been so welcoming and supportive of Penn Highlands becoming part of Centre County," stated Marissa Davis, Regional Center Director, at the open house event. "Business and industry, county school districts, local government, and so many others have supported our arrival. We've already made so many great partnerships. I'm looking forward to building more as we serve the area."

Pennsylvania Highlands mission is to offer affordable, accessible, and high-quality education to all the communities it serves.

"This mission compels us to serve the community to the best of our abilities," shared Weible. " We believe the College plays a vital role in workforce development and significantly contributes to the region's economic growth."

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