State Fair Community College (SFCC) and Central Methodist University (CMU) have formalized a new concurrent enrollment agreement in honor of the late Dara Bigler, former Director at the SFCC Clinton Campus who passed away in July, enhancing the academic opportunities for students at both institutions. The agreement was officially signed during a ceremony held on Aug. 27 at 10:30 AM in Fielding 221 on the Sedalia campus.
This partnership allows SFCC students to simultaneously enroll in courses at both SFCC and CMU, providing them with the unique opportunity to experience a four-year college environment while completing their associate degree. The agreement reinforces both institutions’ commitment to offering high-quality education and seamless pathways to baccalaureate degrees.
Under the agreement, students will receive academic credits at both institutions and will be governed by each school’s policies. SFCC will serve as the “home institution,” with CMU as the “host institution” until students complete their associate degrees. Additionally, students will benefit from coordinated advising and a streamlined transfer process.
The agreement also includes provisions for sharing official transcripts between SFCC and CMU at no cost to students. This ensures that all academic records are up-to-date and accurate, aiding in effective academic advising and degree completion.
With the signing of the latter agreement, Central and SFCC paid tribute to the late Dara Bigler, who served as the State Fair director on its Clinton campus and worked closely with CMU for several years before her passing.
“It was really Dara who got this concurrent agreement started,” said Dr. Deborah Degan-Dixon, CMU’s associate dean of assurance and regions, at the signing. “She contacted Dr. Gulstad and myself and asked if it was possible, and of course we love to do whatever we can to help our students succeed.”
“Dara was always looking for ways to help students and this agreement is a way to help our students and allow them to seamlessly transfer from SFCC to CMU,” said Dr. Brent Bates, SFCC President.
The agreement, effective immediately, will be reviewed every five years to ensure it remains aligned with both institutions’ degree requirements. It can be amended with mutual consent and requires a two-year notice for termination.
About State Fair Community College
State Fair Community College provides relevant and responsive learning experiences that empower our students and communities to prosper. With campuses in Boonville, Clinton, Eldon, Lake of the Ozarks, Sedalia, and Whiteman Airforce Base, SFCC offers the convenience of on-site and online courses leading to degrees or certificates in more than 50 areas of study.
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