“Many of our students are first-generation, and this partnership gives them the opportunity to earn a degree that will change their families’ future forever,” said WOU president Rex Fuller. “That’s the power of a public education. It is agreements like this that help make that success happen.”

Jessica Sandavol is enrolled at both LBCC and WOU. A social science major, she graduated from LBCC with an associate degree in criminal justice, and is currently working toward her bachelor’s degree at WOU.

“The degree partnership is really important because it will help to provide a clear pathway for students to transition to Western,” said Sandavol. “As a student, there is already so much going on, and this degree program will provide guidance they need so they will have one less thing to worry about. It’s especially nice at WOU. The more manageable class sizes and campus makes it easier for students to navigate.”

Ben Cannon, executive director of Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Council, cited statewide data Friday, that shows that for students who start their education at a community college, the time to finishing their degree is often a full term longer due to classes that do not count toward their four-year degree.