Curtis Citizens Key to NCTA Development
Talia Pate is determined to support the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture's (NCTA) campus development. She has pledged $500 to NCTA to help the school meet the $1 million funding requirement established by the state legislature. But like many Curtis citizens considering a contribution, she was unable to make that donation in one lump sum. Instead, she plans to pay NCTA $13.88 each month over the next three years.
"NCTA is important to this community's future," commented Pate who chairs the NCTA Community Advisory Council." "I hope the community recognizes the value of this initiative and will consider making a donation. Whether it is in monthly payments or not, every little bit helps," said Pate.
NCTA has until December 31st to meet the funding goal. The Nebraska legislature has agreed to fund the majority of the project estimated at $8.7 million. But, they want to see that the community has a vested interest in this project and has stipulated a matching requirement of $1 million in private funds.
Since receiving the legislative decision, NCTA has been aggressive in its fundraising efforts. To date the school is within $200,000 of the goal. NCTA Dean, Weldon Sleight stated "Any contribution will bring us closer to achieving the $1 million match requirement. We are so close, and the support of community residents, like Talia, helps not only NCTA but Curtis and Frontier County."
According to NCTA, the proposed campus expansion will allow for much needed student housing, additional classroom space as well as upgraded technology systems. The school has worked hard to establish entrepreneurial programs to encourage students to recognize the value of careers in agribusiness that will allow them to stay in the area. Additional resources are key to ensuring this hard work pays off and the campus expansion represents the cornerstone of NCTA's plans.
"The existing facilities are aging and out of date," remarked Sleight. "Our goal is to increase student enrollment and grow the school and that growth will grow Curtis and Frontier County. Without the new facilities this funding brings, NCTA will not continue to be a viable option for many of Nebraska's students." said Sleight.
