Northern WY Community College District Preparing For Gillette College Separation

It’s no longer a matter of if, but a matter of when Gillette College will become a fully accredited learning institution and its own Community College District.

When that happens, the Northern Wyoming Community College District will take a hit not only with overall enrollment, but financially as well.

District President Doctor Walter Tribley says he estimates whenever the time comes, the district could see up to a 45% drop in enrollment, and a financial loss of up to 3-million dollars per year.

He adds the District is already working on ways to mitigate or nullify the upcoming impacts.

“The plan is more opportunities for courses and educational advancement, personal enrichment coming to you from Sheridan College in every modality. On-line, face to face, evening, out into the community. From degree and certificate granting types of programs, to worker retraining, short-term turn-around training, to personal enrichments.”

Until Gillette College becomes fully accredited, enrollment numbers at Gillette count in the overall enrollment numbers within the Northern Wyoming Community College District

Legislative funding still goes to the District and won’t go directly to Gillette College, until the accreditation process is completed.

Currently, there is no timetable as to when that will happen.