The Burlington County College Board of Trustees approved a proposed $41.5 million budget, maintaining current tuition rates and representing a reduction of nearly $2.4 million made possible through cost saving efforts such as the recently implemented shared services agreement with Burlington County and the Burlington County Institute of Technology.
“Affordable high-quality education is not just a goal for Burlington County College, it’s our mandate,” said George Nyikita, chairman of the Board of Trustees. “We have enormous confidence in President Drayton’s ability to boldly reinvent the college in a way that will make it more attractive to students throughout the region. Holding the line on tuition represents a milestone toward that goal.”
“I am pleased to present a budget that keeps Burlington County College’s tuition rate steady and among the lowest in New Jersey. There is no better educational value in our state,” President Paul Drayton said. “I am confident that additional opportunities for cost savings will be identified as our efforts to make Burlington County College more affordable continue. My commitment is that any such savings will ultimately benefit our students.”
President Drayton identified finances and affordability as his first strategic priority. With his first achievement accomplished, he will now focus the college’s efforts on increasing enrollment by recruiting a high-profile four-year university to campus and improving the overall campus experience for students, faculty and staff.
Funding from the State of New Jersey is projected to remain flat at $7 million, while the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders doubled the county’s operating contribution. In order to further advance facility and technology improvement projects, the Board of Trustees approved minor fee increases totaling $6 per credit hour.
With the adoption of the proposed budget Burlington County College’s tuition rate will remain the second lowest in the state, ensuring that BCC continues to serve as one of the most affordable high-quality education options possible.
