CCC Hosts Service Academy Open House

June 1, 2018

Nebraska Third District Congressman Adrian Smith, in conjunction with the offices of U.S. Senators Deb Fischer and Ben Sasse, hosted a virtual service academy open house at Central Community College on Friday, June 1.

“Each year, my office coordinates with U.S. Senators Fischer and Sasse to offer Third District students and their families the opportunity to learn about earning their education at one our service academies,” said Smith. “In years past, this has presented a challenge for many families who are prevented from attending in person due to the size of Nebraska’s Third District.”

Candace Walton and Adrian SmithSmith’s office reached out to Dr. Candace Walton (left), vice president of innovation and instruction, asking if CCC would be interested in hosting such an event. The answer was an enthusiastic “yes.”

“Congressman Smith’s office reached out saying that they had heard that Central Community College is well-known for its expertise in distance education and the necessary technology,” said Walton.

An IP (internet protocol) room at CCC-Grand Island allowed officials to hold one joint meeting while students and their parents could join in at any CCC location as well as online. Representatives from the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Army ROTC took part. Smith also spoke to those taking part in the meeting.

“This year is the first we have partnered with Central Community College to offer Academy Day online via webinar and I was impressed with the results,” said Smith. “Students and families were afforded the same experience whether they were located in Falls City or Chadron, thanks to the services offered by Central Community College.”