Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) announced that the U.S. Department of Education has awarded a $598,704 federal education grant to Passaic County Community College (PCCC). The Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions grant will assist PCCC in expanding educational opportunities for Hispanic students. 

“I have always said that education is the cornerstone of American society. And it is imperative that students of Hispanic descent have the same access to educational opportunities as anyone else,” said Rep. Pascrell, a former teacher and longtime champion of federal education funding. “This federal investment in Passaic County’s Hispanic students is a game-changer for those seeking to further their education and participate in our economy. And it will allow PCCC to continue its life-changing efforts on behalf of New Jersey’s students. As a former teacher, I know first-hand how vital education is. I will continue to fight for every federal dollar available that increases educational opportunities for all students across the board. Their successes in school and in the workforce help make America great.”

"This significant financial investment from the U.S. Department of Education will transform the way that PCCC students are being prepared for upper division coursework and career success,” said Steven M. Rose, Ed.D., President, Passaic County Community College. “Through a model partnership with Ramapo College of New Jersey, PCCC’s Hispanic and low-income students will save on the cost of a Bachelor’s degree while earning valuable postsecondary credentials needed to succeed in our modern economy.  We are deeply appreciative of Congressman Pascrell for his continued support and advocacy of PCCC and for making these vital resources available." 

Rep. Pascrell is no stranger to the fight for federal support of New Jersey’s students and colleges. Last year, he helped win $250,000 in school security grants for Paterson Public Schools. In September 2018, Reps. Pascrell and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05) announced $300,000 grant to PCCC to prevent sexual violence on campus. Later that year, he helped secure $769,713 for PCCC. Pascrell also announced in 2016 $2 million in federal education grants to Bergen County Community College and PCCC to promote programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.