TANNERSVILLE – As the first freshman class walks the new quad and registers for classes, the new Northampton Community College in Tannersville is finally buzzing.
“I wish we could bottle this because the energy that we’re all feeling and the excitement that we’re feeling could provide power for this campus probably for the next five years,” said Northampton Community College’s Monroe Campus Dean Matthew Connell.
The $72 million brand new campus is now holding summer classes. Hundreds of fall students registering say they’re thrilled about looks of their new home.
“This one looks a lot bigger and a lot better, just because it’s a lot more open and there’s more room for students to go to classes and hang out,” said freshman Kaitlyn Dunne of Reeders.
Dunne wants to study to become a police officer. Her father Peter came with her to freshman orientation, impressed with the new campus.
“Oh yes, it’s very exciting. The old facility was mighty small and in the corner. Nobody really knew about it,” said Peter Dunne.
The first freshman class stepping on campus here at Northampton Community College’s new facility is getting to enjoy a fitness center and gymnasium, amenities the old campus just didn’t have.
The new amenities that are also helping drive up enrollment.
“Not surprisingly, our application numbers for the fall semester of Monroe County residents are up,” said Dean Connell.
Official numbers aren’t in yet but the campus expects about a two to three percent increase in students on campus.
But for some students the draw wasn’t these brand new buildings, but what they offer.
“I like how small it is, instead of having to go to a big university or something like that,” said freshman Mikayela Richey of Saylorsburg.
“Very, very comforting having her close to home,” said Kim Richey of Saylorsburg.
Students can continue to enroll here at Northampton Community College’s Monroe campus through mid-August.
