By Dr. Paul Jarrell, TBCC President
At Tillamook Bay Community College, springtime means scholarship time! Tillamook Bay Community College (TBCC) offers an array of scholarship and support programs to meet the diverse needs of its student body, reinforcing its commitment to education accessibility and student success in Tillamook County. These initiatives help alleviate financial barriers and foster a supportive community for students from various backgrounds, enhancing their educational journey and paving the way for their future achievements.
TBCC Foundation Scholarships: A Gateway to Educational Opportunities
With 32 scholarship funds powered by generous donors, the TBCC Foundation has established 20 endowments, demonstrating a strong community commitment to education. TBCC offers two scholarship cycles each year and distributes over $110,000 in student scholarships annually. The spring cycle is currently open, and interested students can find the application online at tillamookbaycc.edu/scholarships. These funds never have to be paid back and cover a wide range of expenses, including tuition, fees, books, living expenses, and even childcare. If you are looking to transfer, gain some skills in a CTE field, pursue a nursing degree, or more, we have a scholarship for you. Eligibility criteria include part-time or full-time attendance and a minimum 2.0 GPA, making these scholarships accessible to a broad spectrum of students.
Returning Adult Students: The Career-to-Career Program
Initiated in fall 2017, the Career-to-Career (CtoC) program targets Tillamook County residents who have been out of the education system and in the workforce for at least five years and are seeking to advance or change their career paths. As of winter 2024, the program has welcomed 136 students facing diverse challenges, including foster youth, single parenthood, and other significant barriers. The program not only provides financial support but also integrates students into a supportive cohort, encouraging community engagement through college activities or services. Remarkably, 62 students have since completed a degree or certificate, with 31 graduating with the highest honors, showcasing the program’s profound impact on its participants. There are currently 29 students enrolled and actively pursuing a degree.
First Generation College Students: Fostering a Supportive Community
TBCC has also initiated a community for First Generation college students, offering both financial support ($200 per term) and mentoring. This initiative acknowledges the unique challenges faced by students whose families have no or little history of attending college, aiming to ease their transition into higher education. By facilitating connections among First Gen students, faculty, and staff who have navigated similar paths, the program provides invaluable guidance and support. TBCC’s goal is to ensure that First Gen students maximize their college experience through mentorship and access to resources, embodying the college’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
On April 13th, TBCC will be hosting an Open House showcasing the programs and services available to the community. There will be information about all of TBCC’s scholarship opportunities, essential services, and more. Please stop by 4301 Third Street, Tillamook, between 2:00pm and 5:00pm. We have something for everybody; come see for yourself. You really do belong at TBCC!