The Gillette Community College District Board of Trustees approved key contracts for a new learning center and a tuition increase during its March 25 meeting. Trustees convened at the Gillette College Technical Education Center to address construction, funding, and accreditation matters. The session included updates on enrollment trends and new student-led initiatives for the upcoming academic year.
Board members approved a critical Construction Manager at Risk contract with Sampson Construction for the Enzi Applied Learning Center. They also authorized additional architectural services from MOA Architecture, allocating up to $1,988,960 plus expenses for final construction documents. Stifel was selected as the bond underwriter at a rate of $3.50 per bond, noted as a cost-effective choice.
President Dr. Janell Oberlander confirmed the college’s accreditation response was accepted, with a hearing scheduled for April 14. The board approved the first tuition increase in five years, raising rates by $7 per credit for in-state students. Out-of-state students will see a $21 per credit hour increase starting next year.
Enrollment figures remained stable over the past year, with early projections for fall 2025 showing a 1% to 3% rise. Director Jeff Wasserburger reported 756 students enrolled in dual and concurrent enrollment programs for the coming fall. This includes 40 high school students participating in these accelerated courses.
The board passed a resolution naming April 2026 as Gillette Community College Month to honor its workforce training role. Trustees also updated a maintenance policy to limit spending without board approval. Student Senate President Tiffany Enamorado announced plans for a community dodgeball game and a career closet drive.
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