By Gayle Colston Barge
During the annual Eastside Economic Forecast Breakfast presented by the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, global economist and strategist Joseph Quinlan affirmed the importance of financially supporting community colleges. Bellevue College was a sponsor of this annual meeting, further reinforcing its commitment to collaborative partnerships and community engagement.
Quinlan’s presentation was undergirded by the importance of workforce development as companies plan for robust growth and expansion throughout the region. Giving back to this institution of higher learning provides a significant opportunity to make a difference that will impact generations of Washingtonians.
For nearly a half-century, Bellevue College’s focus on innovation and visionary thinking has prepared students for successful careers in a myriad of industries. Over 35,000 students attend the college annually, making it one of the largest institutions of higher learning in the state. The diversity of its students, staff and faculty combined with a strong commitment to social justice extend the reach of the college as both a concerned community partner and economic driver.
From a local commerce perspective, Bellevue boosts the overall economic health by infusing over $185.1 million into East King County yearly. Employers benefit from a strong workforce that is academically prepared to meet the challenges of a continually changing environment with over 11,000 students trained annually. Approximately 75 percent of BC’s professional and technical graduates take jobs in King County. Taxpayers receive a net positive each year of 10.1 percent in the communities east of Lake Washington via increased tax revenues from graduates and reduced costs for welfare and healthcare.
As Bellevue College prepares to celebrate 50 years of excellence, innovation and service to the state of
Washington and beyond, we are excited about our future. A future that will be even brighter as the greater East King County community joins us in celebrating this exemplary institution of higher learning.
As this year comes to a close, the Bellevue College Foundation is providing an opportunity for our neighbors and friends to help raise critical funds to support continued quality education and learning opportunities at BC. An extensive outreach mailing is being sent with more information and a vehicle for making financial contributions. People can make direct gifts and learn more about the Bellevue College Foundation at www.bellevuecollege.edu/foundation.
Bellevue College is truly the community’s college, and it is with your help that we will continue to achieve greatness.
Gayle Colston Barge is vice president of institutional advancement at Bellevue College
