On Thursday, June 26, Woodland Community College (WCC) announced the launch of Reconnect @WCC, a new initiative offering free tuition or a $300 cash grant to individuals who want to return to college and complete their degree. The program is designed to empower adult learners who have some college experience but no degree, providing financial aid and student support services tailored to the unique needs of working adults in historically underserved communities.
The program was introduced at Thursday evening's Woodland State of the City, a forum for civic and business leaders to highlight community progress and promote initiatives that support local growth and development. As a sponsor of the initiative, the City of Woodland has set aside more than $40,000 to help WCC offer the program to local residents.
“Reconnect @WCC aligns with the city’s commitment to workforce development and lifelong learning,” said Woodland Mayor Rich Lansburgh. “We are proud to support this program and look forward to the impact it will have on our residents and local economy.”
Reconnect @WCC recognizes the barriers adult learners often face—including juggling work schedules, family responsibilities, and financial constraints—and responds with flexible, student-centered solutions. Through targeted outreach, financial aid, academic advising, and mental health support, the program creates a clear, achievable path back to higher education and degree completion.
“As Woodland Community College works to close equity gaps and expand pathways to socioeconomic mobility, supporting working adults—especially those who have stopped out—is a top priority,” said Dr. Lizette Navarette, President of Woodland Community College. “Reconnect @WCC is more than just an invitation to return to college; it’s a commitment of support, opportunity, and belonging for those often left behind in higher education. We are proud to launch this first-of-its-kind partnership with the City of Woodland, reaffirming our shared resolve.”
To qualify for Reconnect @WCC, participants must:
- Be a resident of Woodland
- Be age 26 or older
- Earn less than two times the federal poverty level
- Enroll in at least 6 units at Woodland Community College
- Develop an Education Plan with a Counselor
- Focused on adults with some college credits but no degree
Reconnect @WCC offers participants:
- Free tuition, or
- A $300 incentive grant
With the growing number of adult learners seeking flexible and supportive pathways to complete their education, WCC is answering the call. Reconnect @WCC is more than a program—it’s a promise to help adult learners restart their journey with confidence, support, and a clear path to a better future.
For more information about Reconnect @WCC, visit wcc.yccd.edu/student/financialaid/free-tuition/. Students are encouraged to apply now to Woodland Community College now. The program’s first cohort of students will begin in Fall 2025.