Like many schools, Southeastern Community College in West Burlington is facing funding problems after receiving no state aid this year. Recently, the Board of Trustees voted to cut 7 faculty positions and 3 academic programs, and to raise tuition by $4 per credit hour.
But President Michael Ash is optimistic about the college's future. Dr. Ash says improving the college's infrastructure and boosting enrollment have already produced positive results.
Ash says Southeastern is also building relationships with local school districts and superintendents so it can connect with potential students.
He says the college has turned a $400,000 deficit into a surplus of about $75,000, which might eliminate the need for a tuition hike. Trustees of Southeastern Community College are expected to vote on tuition for next year at their meeting in May.