Merski and Harkins secure $1M grant for Erie County Community College

Will fund additional opportunities for dual credit programs

Rep. Patrick J. Harkins April 28, 2025 | 3:38 PM

ERIE, April 28 – A $1 million grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Dual Credit Innovation Grant Program is set to expand dual credit opportunities at Erie County Community College for high school students, state Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, announced today.

“Dual credit programs are a game changer for our students,” Merski said. “This generous award not only strengthens our local educational infrastructure but also opens up new pathways for young people to accelerate their academic careers and enter a competitive workforce.”

“Investing in dual credit opportunities reflects our commitment to ensuring every student in our community has access to high-quality education that connects classroom learning with real-world success,” Harkins said. “This funding will have a lasting impact on the future of our students in Erie County.”

The $1 million grant will enable Erie County Community College to enhance its capacity to offer innovative dual credit courses, improving academic achievement, graduation rates, and college enrollment. This initiative is part of a broader state effort to provide critical educational opportunities for students, especially those historically underrepresented in higher education, and to build a skilled workforce for the future.

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