The Monday Minute with Dr. Williams | Montgomery College, Maryland

September 29, 2025

As we move into a new week, I see how Montgomery College continues to shine as a community of learning and belonging. Every day brings fresh opportunities to discover, to connect, and to grow—whether in classrooms, at events and activities, or online. I encourage you to carry that momentum forward this week, finding inspiration in your studies, your work, and your connections with one another.

Financial Aid Event Focuses On Access

Finances are often top of mind for students, and Montgomery College is committed to ensuring affordability for all. Next Saturday, October 4, the Office of Student Financial Aidnew window will host the annual “How to Pay for Collegenew window” event—both in person and via Zoom. Attendees will receive step-by-step guidance on completing the 2026–2027 FAFSA and learn more about financial aid options. Whether applying for the first time or renewing, students and families will find personalized support from our dedicated staff. Registrationnew window is required, and the event is open to the entire Montgomery County community.

Mentorship Impacts A Student’s Education Path

Montgomery College alumna Rachel Macairan was recently featurednew window in Diverse: Issues in Higher Education for her journey supported by the Last Mile Education Fund. Now thriving in her career at Northrop Grumman, Rachel credits an MC professor for encouraging her to pursue this scholarship opportunity, which provided the final support she needed to graduate. The article highlights how relatively small financial boosts—on average $1,270—can make the difference between stopping out and finishing strong. For Rachel, that support became a springboard to post-graduation success. Rachel’s achievements reflect the powerful impact of faculty and staff, whose ongoing encouragement, advising, and scholarship referrals contribute to extraordinary outcomes for our students.

County Honors Faculty Member And Alumna

Congratulations to Dr. Glenda Hernandez Tittle, professor of education, who was honorednew window last week with a Rays of Hope award by Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the Montgomery County Latin American Advisory Group for her outstanding advocacy and dedication to the Latine community. One of her former students, MC alumna Ms. Luz Chavez Gonzales, was also recognized for her impactful community engagement and social justice campaigns. Their achievements underscore the extraordinary outcomes that emerge when teaching, mentorship, and advocacy come together.

With Raptor Regards,
Dr. Jermaine F. Williams signature

Dr. Jermaine F. Williams
President
Facebook | DrWilliamsMC
Instagram | @drwilliamsmc

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