Aggies Commit to Complete

Aggies Commit to Complete

Commit to Complete ---   The University of Nebraska has one commencement each May for graduates with associate degrees or certificates earned through the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis. (NCTA File photo)
Commit to Complete --- The University of Nebraska has one commencement each May for graduates with associate degrees or certificates earned through the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis. (NCTA File photo)

Dec. 5, 2019

NCTA Dean’s Message

By Interim Dean Kelly Bruns, Ph.D.

A successful college student is one who receives a diploma, certificate or credentials after months or years of dedicated studies.

Then, with the title of graduate and alumnus, that individual enters the workforce educated and prepared for a career.

Last week, the University of Nebraska, which includes NCTA in Curtis, expanded its Commit to Complete campaign with an aim to minimize college costs and grow the workforce by encouraging students to graduate on time.

We wholeheartedly endorse this campaign, which was initially launched in 2016. We appreciate our partners in public higher education, businesses and state government who unite to address the workforce needs of Nebraska.

Employers value the skilled graduates from NCTA who are veterinary technicians, livestock producers, agribusiness managers, farmers and certified agronomists, welders and irrigation technicians, and other professionals.

These graduates complete an affordable, quality program to earn their associate degree in two years. Some may add a second major in an additional year. We also off certificate programs such as those in animal care or irrigation technician in a two-semester format.

All institutions report graduate assessments annually. The Nebraska Coordinating Commission on Post-Secondary Education review of two-year institutions in the state shows NCTA leads graduation rates with 50% in the 10-year period of 2007-2017.

“Nebraskans rightfully want to know what we’re doing to ensure that our students graduate on time, with as little debt as possible, and with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce,” said Susan Fritz, NU’s interim president.

 “Attracting and retaining more talent in our state is certainly part of the solution to the workforce crisis. But as institutions of higher learning, we also have a responsibility to help our students complete their academic journey on time.”

Commit to Complete offers a four-step plan for degree completion.

  • Visit your adviser
  • Make a plan
  • Stay on track
  • Graduate sooner

Because of our smaller size at NCTA and many opportunities for one-on-one conversations between students and their faculty advisors, the planning process and open communication is valuable. We are committed to our Aggie students to help them achieve success!

Aggies on the road

Annually, the first part of December means agricultural producers from around the state gather for their membership and association conventions. Our NCTA students gain education and networking opportunities at these events with our partners in agriculture.

This week and next, look for our Aggies at meetings of the Nebraska Cattlemen or the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. We have collegiate chapters affiliated with both organizations.

Until next week, go Aggies!

NCTA is devoted to a statewide mission of preparing students for successful careers in agriculture, veterinary technology, and related industries. The college provides open access to innovative technical education resulting in associate degrees, certificates, and other credentials.

Upcoming events

Dec. 5: Curtis Rotary meeting, 12-1 p.m., Ed Center

Dec. 9:  NCTA collection of Toys for Tots and Clothes for Tots

Dec. 10: 4-H and Girl Scout Computers, 6-8 p.m., Ed Center

Dec. 12: Curtis Rotary, 12-1 p.m., Ed Center

Dec. 12: Curtis Hometown Christmas events

Dec. 16-19: Semester exams

Download a PDF of this press release