Erie County Community College – How It is Impacting the Community, Addressing Workforce Development, and Helping to Shape the Future
In September 2021 – amid the Covid-19 pandemic – the Erie County Community College opened (EC3) its doors and, most recently, in May 2025 graduated 135 students. Approximately 800 more students – from recent high-school grads, to dual enrollment students, to transfer and non-traditional students – are currently enrolled. What is EC3's mission, and how has the institution grown over the past four years? Where is it headed into the future? Join EC3 President Dr. Christopher Gray, as he discusses the impact of providing affordable access to innovative education and workforce training, offers updates on the accreditation process, and more.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Wednesday, August 27, 12pm to 1:30pm
Admission: Free; Lunch optional, $5/person (Vegetarian option available)
*If you do NOT receive a letter from gerlock@jeserie.org within 24-48 hours regarding your registration, please check your spam or junk folder. Thank you!
Dr. Christopher Gray, Ph.D. is founding President of Erie County Community College of Pennsylvania, an educator, artist, and community advocate. He has taught speech and theater in higher education for 20 years and is active in the community and regional theater. Chris holds a Master’s degree in theatre and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Foundations with a research area of Theatre Assessment. Chris is a graduate from, and a firm believer in the community college. Dr. Gray’s professional focus has been strengthening regional ecosystems by building workforces. Connecting local business and industry needs to students interested in high-paid, in-demand careers enhance the entire community. Dr. Gray believes in the power of collaboration between community colleges, business, and civic partners to shape the local economic development.
