The Final State of the Union
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Summary:
Dr. Jill Biden shares the story of her visit to De Anza College in Cupertino, California, where she spoke with students about leadership and civic engagement.
Dr. Jill Biden discusses with students ways in which leadership and civic engagement can increase student success at De Anza College, April 9, 2015. (Photo by James Gleeson)
Last night, I visited De Anza College — a vibrant school in Cupertino, California that is successfully helping their students pursue their dreams.
De Anza College is one of the top community colleges in the state for the number of students who transfer to the University of California and California State University. In fact, 67 percent of De Anza College students will graduate or transfer to a four-year school within six years.
What is even more impressive than the statistics of student success at De Anza College, are the students themselves. I had the opportunity to talk with a group of students about their participation in community and civic engagement programs, like Latino Empowerment at De Anza (LEAD), which is developing the next generation of leaders in their community.
I have always said that my students are my heroes. I am profoundly moved by their determination to learn and their quest to make a better life for themselves and their families. That holds true for the inspiring students at De Anza College.
For the last six years, our Administration has lifted up community colleges as one of America’s best-kept secrets. We believe that all Americans deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential. As an educator, I’m proud to be part of an Administration that recognizes the value of community colleges and in investing in them.
