Patrick Cate: Lakes Region Community College: Your college on the rise

Community colleges play a powerful role in strengthening the regions they serve. According to the American Association of Community Colleges, areas with higher community college enrollment experience increased income levels and lower unemployment. That’s especially encouraging for our community, where Lakes Region Community College continues to grow. We are, without question, a college on the rise.

Recently, I had the opportunity to share some updates with local leaders and our faculty and staff. I think it’s important to share this information with our broader community since accessible education doesn’t just support students; it strengthens the entire region.

Student enrollment has increased

Over the last four spring semesters, LRCC’s unique student enrollment in credit-based programs increased 14.2%. LRCC serves over 2,200 learners annually across degree programs, Early College, and non-credit workforce training. Over the past five years, that represents more than 900 additional students. That is not a minor shift.  

Getting students to their personal finish line is even more important. At LRCC, 75% of full-time students re-enroll year-to-year; a full 5 percentage points above the national average. When students persist at this level, they have the structure and support to reach their goals, even with the realities of childcare, transportation issues, and financial pressures.

We remain an affordable option

Since 2011, CPI inflation has risen by roughly 37%. Over that same period, LRCC tuition increased only 6.25%. This reflects a commitment to keep higher education and workforce training within reach. But affordability requires stewardship. Through careful management and operational efficiencies, LRCC’s total expenses are lower today than they were in 2019. While our impact grows, we remain disciplined about cost.

More than 70 degree, certificate programs available

We offer more than 70 degree and certificate programs aligned with the needs of our region and state. Our most in-demand pathways include nursing, fire science, automotive technology, culinary, electrical systems, and business. Our workforce development has also expanded significantly, with 15 training programs that deliver faster entry into good jobs, stronger retention for employers, and greater stability for families.

We are proud members of our community

LRCC is part of the region’s civic and economic infrastructure. We partner with local organizations, participate in community events, and help convene employers and educators around shared challenges. When LRCC is strong, the Lakes Region is stronger. I cannot be prouder of the success of our college and our community.  But we are mindful that we must address the constraints that can slow progress.

• Capacity in high-demand programs is limited. Some programs require specialized labs, equipment, clinical placements, and faculty that require investment and planning.
• Recruiting and retaining qualified faculty and trainers is increasingly competitive. We ask skilled professionals to teach in a labor market where their expertise is in high demand.
• Many students face barriers with transportation, childcare, housing instability, and the rising cost of living. These challenges are often the difference between a student completing a credential or dropping out.

We need your help

If you are an employer, we need your partnership through advisory engagement, internships, apprenticeships, financial support, and direct feedback about the skills you need most. Reach out to discuss how we can build the workforce pipeline together by emailing lrccinfo@lrcc.edu or calling 603-524-3207. 

If you are a community leader or policymaker, we need continued investments to expand capacity and remove barriers. Supporting community colleges is one of the most direct, measurable investments for workforce readiness and economic stability.  

LRCC’s momentum is inspiring and the data is clear. But what matters most is what that momentum represents for all of us: more residents learning new skills, more families accessing opportunities, and more employers finding the workforce they need.

I invite you all to help us continue our work and become part of our college on the rise.

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Patrick Cate serves as president of Lakes Region Community College in Laconia, where he focuses on student success, workforce development, and institutional innovation. His work centers on ensuring LRCC remains an engine of opportunity and economic vitality for central New Hampshire and beyond.