Seaside, CA - Hartnell College and Cal State Monterey Bay announce the launch of the new Panther Otter Pathway Program, which will make it easier for students to earn a college degree. A signing ceremony for the program takes place 9 - 10 a.m. on Oct. 31 at CSUMB’s Otter Student Union.
Building on a long-standing history of collaboration, the two schools have created a clearer pathway for first-time first-year students who do not meet the requirements to attend a CSU after high school to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Students in the program will be simultaneously admitted to Hartnell College and Cal State Monterey Bay, allowing them to earn an Associates Degree for Transfer from Hartnell, with guaranteed admission to Cal State Monterey Bay. The streamlined process allows students to complete one simplified application to enroll in Hartnell, enroll in the POP Program, and apply to CSUMB.
The program is expected to increase graduation rates for participating students and propel them into meaningful and rewarding careers, allowing them to support themselves and their families, and boost the economy in their communities.
“Since my arrival at Cal State Monterey Bay, we have worked to strengthen the pathways to higher education through collaboration with our community college partners,” said President Vanya Quiñones. “We are pleased to announce this new program with Hartnell College that further enhances social mobility in our communities and streamlines the process for students to continue their studies with us once they complete their associate for transfer degrees."
“The Panther Otter Pathway will ensure students earn their associate’s degree and continue seamlessly to earn a bachelor’s degree at CSUMB,” said Michael Gutierrez, Superintendent/President of Hartnell College. “The goal is to remove barriers in access to higher education and create a clear pathway to lead our students to economic and social mobility.”
President Michael Gutierrez and President Vanya Quiñones, as well as leadership from both schools, will attend a joint signing ceremony 9 - 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 31, at CSUMB’s Otter Student Union Ballroom (3118 Inter-Garrison Road, Seaside).
Media are invited to attend, interview principals including both presidents, and capture photos and/or video of attendees including the mascots from both schools.
For interviews or more information about Hartnell College, contact: Richard Morales, Director of Communications & Marketing, at 831-755-6858 (direct), 831-206-9422 (cell), rmorales@hartnell.edu .
For interviews or more information about CSUMB, contact: Walter Ryce, wryce@csumb.edu, 831-582-3653, or Mark Muckenfuss, mmuckenfuss@csumb.edu, 831-582-3991.
About Hartnell College
Located in the heart of Salinas Valley, Hartnell Community College District is a leading institution serving over 12,000 students annually across our main campus in Salinas, the Alisal Campus, and education centers in King City, Castroville, and Soledad. HCCD is a Seal of Excelencia Certified institution and a recognized Hispanic-serving institution since 2000. We offer associate and bachelor's degrees and certificate programs to prepare students for successful transfer to four-year universities or immediate entry into the workforce. Learn more about our programs and initiatives at hartnell.edu.
About Cal State Monterey Bay
In 1994, a group of educators, elected officials, and community leaders established Cal State Monterey Bay in the inspiring coastal landscape of Monterey Bay on the former Fort Ord Army base. We are recognized for innovative programs in our 28 undergraduate and eight graduate degrees that prepare our students for success and help power the regional economy. Seventy-two percent of our students receive financial aid, and 53 percent are among the first of their families to attend college. Learn more at csumb.edu.
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