Fort Scott Community College held its first “State of FSCC” community luncheon on May 21 in the Ellis Fine Arts Building, drawing a full house of faculty, staff, community partners, donors, board members, alumni, and supporters.
President Dr. Jack Welch and his administrative leadership team used the event to share updates on enrollment strategy, athletics, finances, academics, and the college’s vision for the future. The college plans to make this an annual event.
Foundation and Grants
Lindsay Hill, Dean of Advancement, reported that the FSCC Foundation awarded over $200,000 in student scholarships this past year, and the foundation portfolio has grown to more than $7.5 million. Federal and state grants continue to support key programs including TRIO, HEP, CAMP, the Heavy Equipment program (ARPA), CTE pathways (FRAME grant), and nursing.
Enrollment and Student Recruitment
Vanessa Poyner, VP of Student Affairs, addressed enrollment trends, acknowledging that enrollment is down statewide. However, FSCC is responding by shifting strategy rather than simply accepting a decline. The college has created new positions to strengthen relationships with high schools across its three-county, 11-school-district service area. Concurrent and dual credit enrollment with high school students remains strong, and career and technical education (CTE) programs continue to grow.
Athletics as a Draw
Athletic Director Dave Wiemers reported on program successes including a Region 6 tournament championship, continued dominance by the rodeo program (three consecutive Central Plains team championships), and another strong baseball season. A new soccer program is launching this fall with coaches already recruiting, and the track program is being rebuilt from zero to a target of 50-60 athletes. In total, FSCC expects to add approximately 128 students through athletic roster growth.
Financial Update
CFO Gina Shelton reviewed FSCC’s revenue sources, noting that state appropriations and local property taxes make up the largest portions. The college has held its mill levy largely flat over the past decade, with only a modest increase in the last two years to address cash position concerns. Shelton reported that the college has regained financial stability and is focused on responsible budgeting, cost management, and strategic program investment. She emphasized that not every program is going to break even at community colleges like FSCC as they attempt to meet community needs.
Academics
Dr. Larry Guerrero, VP of Academic Affairs, highlighted that FSCC operates with 31 full-time faculty and 39 adjunct professors, offering up to 354 courses per semester. The college graduated 285 students at its most recent commencement. Notably, FSCC boasts a 61% retention rate — among the highest for Kansas community colleges — and a 40% graduation rate. The Higher Learning Commission recognized FSCC’s assessment plan as among the most impressive they have seen. FSCC also holds the number one community college GPA transfer rate to four-year schools in Kansas. New programs including pharmacy tech are being added.
Economic Impact
Dr. Welch cited research showing FSCC contributes more than $145.6 million in total economic impact to the region, with alumni impact alone exceeding $135 million. One in every 19 jobs in the service area is connected to FSCC activity, supporting more than 2,700 regional jobs. The college employs 109 full-time and 34 part-time employees with a payroll exceeding $6.25 million.
Looking Ahead
Dr. Welch closed by emphasizing that FSCC’s success depends on community partnership. He outlined a six-year plan and encouraged community members to spread the word about what the college offers. He noted that FSCC has 2 by 2 agreements with Missouri Southern, and articulation agreement with Emporia State and is working with Pittsburg State.
“A college succeeds because of the people, our relationships, who we are, what we do, the care from our heart to see people grow,” Dr. Welch told attendees.
In a follow-up email, Dr. Welch thanked attendees and invited ongoing feedback: “We want to continue building relationships, listening, and working together for the betterment of FSCC.”
For more information about Fort Scott Community College, visit fortscott.edu or contact the admissions office in Bailey Hall.