Rappahannock County residents will be able to take Lord Fairfax Community College classes for credit without traveling to a campus outside of the county, beginning later this month, college officials say.
Lord Fairfax Community College is joining forces with RappU in a bid to bring more Rappahannock Countians to the higher education table.
Three classes bearing LFCC credits will be offered in Rappahannock County beginning Aug. 20. They are U.S. History 121, Principles of Public Speaking 100 and Music Appreciation 121.
RappU is a nonprofit offering lifelong-learning classes, as well as workforce development courses, in Rappahannock County.
Caroline Wood, the dean of LFCC’s Fauquier Campus in Warrenton, says the two organizations have been discussing offering some Lord Fairfax classes fo credit in partnership with RappU for several months.
She said in a written statement, “Of course, we have been serving Rappahannock County residents at our Fauquier Campus, but we also want to be able to bring some of our classes closer to home for those unable to make it to campus,”
Bringing LFCC classes to Rappahannock County will benefit those without adequate transportation, or who do not want to commute to Warrenton, says Kathy Grove, a RappU Board of Directors member.
The LFCC classes should be attractive to a variety of students, whether they are fresh out of high school – or even still in high school and taking them as dual-enrolled students – those looking to revamp or change their careers, or lifelong learners, according to Grove.
“This has the potential to increase employability, increase income for our residents, and maybe even keep more residents from having to move out of Rappahannock County,” she says.
Wood agrees.
“It’s getting their feet wet,” she says of those who might find it intimidating to take the first steps needed to attain a degree. “They can go to college in their neighborhood, and then realize they really can do it, that this is something that is achievable and is something they can do anywhere.
“We’re very student-focused. We pride ourselves on being with our students through the whole process so they don’t feel like just a number.”
Grove was one of the founders of RappU, which she has seen expand from just offering lifelong learning classes to now offering workforce programs, such as certified nurse aide, phlebotomy technician, and certified clinical medical assistant.
“We’ve always dreamed of having some Lord Fairfax classes,” she says. “I’m so pleased the college’s administration is open to the possibility.”
Wood noted financial aid will be available to those who qualify.
There will be a new student orientation and open house 5:30-7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 9 at RappU, 11669 Lee Highway, Sperryville. Additionally, an LFCC representative will visit Rappahannock County High School and Rappahannock County Elementary School on Monday, Aug. 13 during meet the teacher and open house events at those schools.
Learn more about LFCC and RappU here, or contact Michelle Cribbs at [email protected] or (540) 351-1032.
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