Connolly announces he will continue in his role as SCCC president

Newton – Dr. Jon Connolly, President of Sussex County Community College (SCCC), has announced he will continue in his role as President of the College.
The Board of Trustees says they appreciate the direction and management he has given the College and will continue to provide. Connolly, in partnership with the board, has overseen several vital projects and educational programs that are the foundation of the SCCC Strategic Plan.
Over the past four years, he has expanded the career and technical programs after seeing a need for these types of technical jobs across the county and state. He added programs that were in-demand, giving students viable job opportunities after graduation and employers an added workforce. To house this expansion of programs, Jon and the Board of Trustees spearheaded the acquisition of a new career and technical education center in downtown Newton at the former site of McGuire Chevrolet.
In early 2018, SCCC received full reaccreditation, with no required improvement actions, from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education under the leadership of the President. Later that year, Jon, in collaboration with the Board and college employees, launched the 2018-2022 Strategic Plan to provide a consistent strategic direction for the future of the College.
“Jon’s on-going role as president will allow SCCC to continue its work in many academic areas important to the economy,” stated SCCC Board Chair Bill Curcio. “We appreciate his passion and persistence as he continues to reinforce the work he has accomplished already. Jon has been a powerful advocate for the economic development of the county. We look forward to his continued relationship with the board, the College and the community.”
Connolly will also continue to oversee the New Academic Center construction; the development of new relevant programs; and the creation of partnerships with industry, schools, and municipalities. The new Academic Center, with its 3,000 square foot maker space, will enhance engineering programs and will bring more STEM-strength to campus.
“It continues to be an honor to serve Sussex County,” Connolly said. “There is no work in higher education that is more rewarding than what we are doing together with our government and industry partners.”