Today, Newman University announced the expansion of the HERE program to three additional community colleges, including Allen Community College, Hutchinson Community College and Colby Community College. With these additions, the HERE program will officially be bringing bachelor’s degree completion programs to students across six Kansas communities.

“We are excited to offer this new opportunity to our students in partnership with Newman University. Our community will greatly benefit from experienced professionals joining the workforce, contributing to our local hospitals, schools, agricultural industry as well as companies large and small,” said Dr. Lyvier Leffler, President of Allen Community College.

Students who earn their associate degree through Allen Community College, Hutchinson Community College and Colby Community College will now be able to conveniently earn a full bachelor’s degree at a school within their community instead of having to travel to larger cities within Kansas. Scholarships and financial aid make a bachelor’s degree as affordable as $750 per year with most students graduating just two years after earning an associate degree.

“The HERE program has been such a success for students across Southwest Kansas and, we are thrilled to expand into three more communities,” said Alden Stout, VP Academic Affairs at Newman University. “With more than 70 lives changed through bachelor’s degrees in the HERE program already, we could not be more excited to see what the future holds for students in Iola, Hutchinson and Colby. Knowledge is power, and we will continue to grow this program to make higher education accessible to students across Kansas.”

The HERE program offers students higher education and career opportunities without leaving their hometown. For many students, soaring tuition costs and relocation concerns prevent them from attending a four-year college or university. Newman University understands the concerns students are having and has created a successful program to mitigate these barriers.

“The closest public university is currently 50 miles away from Hutchinson, and for many students, a traditional private college is not feasible due to cost. Newman University is bringing bachelor’s degrees to Hutchinson, and meeting students where they are at. We believe this new program will open doors for students, enabling them to earn their associate’s degree at HutchCC and then earn the bachelor’s degree affordably, without having to leave our community,” said Dr. Tricia Paramore, President of Hutchinson Community College.

From education to computer science, up to 10 bachelor’s degree tracks give students the opportunity to explore and achieve career goals. Flexible learning options including night classes and online learning in addition to traditional classes allow students to balance work-life responsibilities with education.

“Colby and communities throughout rural Kansas continue to face a critical need for qualified educators and nurses,” said Seth Carter, President of Colby Community College. “The HERE program provides our students with an opportunity to pursue these high-demand careers without having to leave the communities they call home. By creating accessible pathways to advanced degrees, we can help strengthen our local workforce and keep talented individuals in Northwest Kansas. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership with Newman University will provide our students and the communities we serve.”

Enrollment is now open at all six community colleges for the Fall 2026 semester. Students can apply to their respective HERE program by visiting one of the links below.

Garden City – GCCCNewman.com

Dodge City – DC3Newman.com

Liberal – SCCCNewman.com

Hutchinson – HutchccNewman.com

Allen – ACCNewman.com

Colby – CCCNewman.com

About Newman:

Founded in 1933, Newman University is grounded in Catholic values and traditions yet is respectful of all faith traditions. At Newman you’ll find people, programs, organizations, and activities designed to educate your mind and inspire your spirit.

The main campus is in Wichita, Kansas with outreach sites in Southeast Kansas, Southwest Kansas, Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Newman is a sponsored ministry of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ United States Region.

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