With record growth in student enrollment, there is little question that this period in Lone Star College-North Harris’ history will be recorded as both challenging and dynamic. Enthusiasm generated by the colleges’ expansion and changing community has brought with it the need to strengthen community partnerships. LSC-North Harris is dedicated to events and practices that connect the college to the community in meaningful ways.
On Thursday, Dec. 3, with community support and interest, LSC-North Harris hosted a Community Leadership Luncheon. Dr. Steve Head, LSC-North Harris president, and Deric Muhammad, community activist–who has done extensive work in the Acres Homes area–guided discussions between LSC-North Harris staff, faculty, student leaders, and community leaders.
The focus of the luncheon was to eliminating issues that divide the community. A range of topics was covered with both groups committing to the development and enhancement of long-term sustainability between LSC-North Harris and the community as partners in expanding educational awareness, workforce opportunities and economic growth. Attendees at the luncheon included representatives from Houston city councilmen’s offices, church leaders, industry developers, community groups, and educators.
As LSC-North Harris, part of the Lone Star College System, prepares to break ground in 2010 for its new Victory Center Campus, a 70,000* square-foot multipurpose facility, which will be located in Acres Homes and the Aldine Independent School District, leaders realized the need to be intentional in addressing diverse issues facing the community.
“Our ambition is to make certain that the youth in our communities are exposed to all of the resources and educational opportunities available to them. We must also make sure that our community is an active partner in the building, expansion, and reform of all aspects of our community,” says Muhammad. “We look forward to a working partnership with Lone Star College-North Harris.”
Lone Star College-North Harris currently has more than 14,000 students enrolled in its credit courses. LSC-North Harris was first established in 1972, when citizens of Aldine, Spring and Humble ISDs voted to form North Harris County College.
“We have been serving the community for more than 35 years. By continuing strong communications with our partners and providing workforce training, college courses, support for teaching and learning, and access to financial aid we envision our locations such as the Victory Center and our other campuses becoming ‘beacons of light’ for the entire community,” says Dr. Head.
Lone Star College-North Harris is located at 2700 W.W. Thorne Drive, one-half mile south of FM 1960 East, between Aldine-Westfield and Hardy Roads. For more information about the college, call 281.618.5400 or visit: NorthHarris.LoneStar.edu.
*Note to editors: Since the time of this press release, the square footage of the Victory Center Campus has been upgraded to 85,000.