Community College of Philadelphia officials face questions regarding president’s removal despite strong college performance.

The Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) faced significant scrutiny from the City Council during a recent hearing, shortly after appointing an interim leader. The college’s leadership was called to address concerns surrounding the recent termination of President Donald Guy Generals and the institution’s request for increased funding from the city.

CCP officials presented a robust case for their request, noting a rise in enrollment, improved student retention rates, and the expansion of partnerships. However, Councilmember Cindy Bass raised critical questions about the circumstances leading to Generals’ ousting, pointing out the discrepancy between the positive metrics cited by college administrators and the decision to seek new leadership. After being placed on paid administrative leave earlier this month, Generals’ contract was not renewed by the board.

Harold T. Epps, Chair of the CCP Board, acknowledged Generals’ contributions and remarked that there were underlying factors influencing the board’s decision that may not be publicly disclosed. This sentiment was echoed by Bass, who questioned the rationale behind the leadership change in light of the college’s apparent successes.

During the hearing, CCP sought an additional million—representing a 14% increase—over the million allocated from the city for the current fiscal year. Should this request be fulfilled, it would raise the college’s funding to million, surpassing the million the mayor has currently earmarked for the institution. CCP officials articulated that the additional funds are necessary to sustain a quality educational experience and to cover the expenses associated with recently negotiated faculty contracts. Epps emphasized that such funding would help prevent a tuition increase, as the college has maintained stable tuition for the past seven years.

Interim President Alycia Marshall, who stepped into the role following Generals’ dismissal, accompanied Epps and other college administrators during the approximately 90-minute session, where they addressed various inquiries.

The college reported an increase in enrollment, with unduplicated credit enrollment rising to 18,326, a 4.5% increase from the previous year. Furthermore, the institution highlighted its newly launched City College for Municipal Employment program, which provides free career training to Philadelphia residents aspiring to work in city positions.

To enhance its offerings, CCP also announced a partnership with the U.S. Navy aimed at training 150 local residents for careers in naval welding and nondestructive testing, supported by a .76 million grant. This program is notably the only two-year program of its kind in the country, designed to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the maritime industry.

Epps concluded by advocating for improved community engagement, suggesting that each City Council member appoint a liaison to further facilitate collaboration between their offices and CCP. He outlined a goal to double the college’s graduates from the current 1,800 to 2,000 per year to meet workforce demands, emphasizing education as a vital avenue for upward mobility.

As CCP navigates these challenges, the college’s leadership is focused on maintaining growth and improving educational opportunities for the Philadelphia community. Media News Source