History of the
University Partnership

In the early 1990s, the economy was entering a period of technological innovation, a period that would give rise to the internet, advanced manufacturing, medical innovations and more. This transformation would alter the nature of jobs, requiring talent to have greater levels of education and skills.  However, at that time, Lorain County ranked first in the region for associate degree holders but last in the region for those with bachelor's and master’s degrees.

Recognizing the change underway on November 15, 1994, more than 300 community leaders first gathered to form a plan to raise educational attainment and keep Lorain County’s workforce competitive.  These conversations would create the vision for what would become LCCC’s University Partnership.

A year later, in 1995, Lorain County voters supported the concept by passing a levy to create Lorain County Community College’s University Partnership.  In 1996, the University Partnership launched with five colleges and universities delivering 12 bachelors and master’s degrees. That vision and leadership from our community made LCCC the first community college in Ohio to offer such a program.

The history of LCCC’s University Partnership tells the story of opportunity, innovation and collaboration. And it has been a game-changer for our community, helping to dramatically increase the number of people who hold bachelor and master’s degrees in Lorain County.