HCC President Honored for New Programs
Katy, TX (January 26, 2016) Houston Community College (HCC) has the largest international population of any community college in the country. In no small part by the efforts of HCC president Dr. Zachary Hodges to attract foreign students.
The World Chamber of Commerce recently recognized Dr. Hodges’ innovative thinking with the International Pioneer award.
“Houston Community College is an inclusive institution and is only strengthened by the diversity of our students,” said Dr. Hodges. “The programs that we implement are meant to help students grow in a 21st century economy and it’s wonderful that students around the world see the benefits of attending school in Houston, one of the most diverse cities in the country. I am pleased to accept an award recognizing the hard work HCC puts in to grow the next generation of workers, entrepreneurs and innovators.”
Students from nearly 150 countries come to HCC for quality education. More than 900 from Vietnam and more than 500 from Mexico. Others are from as far away as Japan, Congo and India. As of fall 2014, 5,850 international students enrolled at HCC. That’s up 2.6% from fall 2012.
HCC students in the U.S. also have the opportunity to study abroad and attend a global seminar in Salzburg, Austria.
“It is programs like these that attract students to West Houston and enrich our communities,” said Victoria Bryant, World Chamber of Commerce Texas president. “Dr. Hodges is instrumental in attracting international students to the Houston area with his global mindset. We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of 2015 International Pioneer award.”
