News Release

Wilmington University and Cecil College Celebrate Partnership

University Offers Bachelor's Degree Program at Elkton Station Location

Dr. Jack Varsalona, the president of Wilmington University and Dr. Stephen Pannill, the president of Cecil College came together today before members of the Cecil County Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the beginning of a great venture. The two presidents signed the final paperwork that will give Wilmington University the opportunity to offer baccalaureate education courses at Cecil College's Elkton Station location beginning this fall. This partnership, the first of its kind in the area, will allow an out-of-state university the chance to offer an entire bachelor's degree at Cecil College in Elkton. Cecil College students may transfer their General Education Associate's degree credits toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Middle Level Education without having to drive elsewhere to complete the program.

"It is truly an honor to partner with Cecil College," said Dr. Varsalona. "You have a real gem in this College and a great president and leader in Dr. Pannill." He went on to say, "Dr. Pannill is creating new programs in anticipation of jobs in the community while at the same time maintaining the strength of the current programs that are focused on the real student. And that's the kind of organization we want to be a part of."

Dr. Pannill echoed Dr. Varsalona's sentiments saying, "Wilmington University is a good partner and a good match because our values are similar. [They] believe in treating the student well and we aspire to treat our students well. We want to develop a way to reach out to working students who can work through our programs rapidly and Wilmington University shares this same philosophy. ...Together we can work to help support these students and support our community."

Both presidents made special mention of the people who worked tirelessly to bring Wilmington University to the Old Line State. They both thanked the Board of Trustees at Cecil College, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs at Wilmington University, Dr. Richard Gochnauer and Education Dean at Wilmington University, Dr. John Gray. In particular, they both acknowledged Dr. David Rudolph, Chair of the Education Division at Cecil College and State Delegate District 34B for his efforts. Dr. Rudolph helped pass the legislature that allowed an out-of-state institution, like Wilmington University, to offer a four year degree in Cecil County, Maryland.

Students have already started signing up for Wilmington University courses at Cecil's Elkton Station. Brandi McRoberts, a current Wilmington University Elementary Education student and alumnus of Cecil College was excited to hear about the partnership. "It's great to think that I can take some of my education courses at Cecil instead of driving to the New Castle campus," said McRoberts. "Right now it is a 30 minute journey to class so that will cut my travel time in half, not to mention saving money on gas and tolls." McRoberts, who is a student teacher in the Cecil County Public School System says she has seen many of her fellow Cecil College graduates enroll in courses at Wilmington University. "For those of us who are educators it is so important to take courses in Maryland as well as teach in Maryland. It helps you get to know the school system and feel more comfortable in the classroom."

Kim McDaniel, a current Cecil College student who is earning her Associate's in Elementary Education is excited at the possibility of enrolling at Wilmington University when she graduates. "I'd like to start in the summer of 2011 and transfer my credits," said McDaniel, also a substitute teacher in the district. "It's close to home and really affordable, as soon as I heard about it I knew I wanted to sign up. I'm looking forward to it."

To learn more about the partnership between Wilmington University and Cecil College visit www.wilmu.edu/cecil.
 

Published: Thursday, September 9, 2010 - Cecil County, MD