AIC Forms Housing Partnerships with Holyoke Community College and Springfield Technical Community College

Historic Agreements Strengthen the Bonds between AIC and Local Two-Year Institutions

American International College (AIC) has teamed up with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) to address the housing needs of their students. AIC has recently sealed agreements with both colleges to provide their students with accommodation in its campus residence halls and apartments.

These partnerships reinforce the already strong relationships between AIC and the two institutions, which have been strengthened by renewed articulation agreements that facilitate a seamless transition for their graduates and qualified candidates to AIC. AIC Vice President for Student Affairs Matthew Scott, called the housing agreements the next logical step, emphasizing that the College’s objective is to create a program that makes community college students living on campus to feel at home. “The plan is to have HCC and STCC students be embraced as a real part of the AIC community.”

Under the agreements, AIC will offer affordable housing options to STCC, and HCC students aged 18 and above who are in good academic standing. These students will also have access to AIC’s health and counseling services, library, laundry facilities, gym, and other support services. Dining and parking plans will be available for an additional cost.

AIC President Hubert Benitez regards these partnerships between private and public colleges as critical to breaking down obstacles to higher education, such as accessible and affordable housing. “These agreements are designed to provide pipelines to higher education and immersive college experiences that open doors for young adults in our community,” said Benitez.

HCC President Christina Royal believes the agreement she signed with President Benitez provides more than housing for their students; it also exposes them to college life beyond HCC. “It gives [HCC students] a window into what their futures will look like when they think about transfer possibilities and helps immerse them in another college environment, which are all big wins for our students,” Royal said.

HCC students may move into AIC housing as early as August for the fall semester, which at HCC begins in September.

STCC President John B. Cook sees the partnership between his college and AIC as an opportunity that will help many students in the greater-Springfield area who require secure housing, enabling them to attend STCC full-time. “This is true ecosystem work for two colleges closely connected by way of State Street. Given the housing needs of community college students now, and the opportunity to preview baccalaureate pathways down the road, we are thrilled to see the realization of this effort,” Cook said.

STCC Vice President of Student Affairs Darcey Kemp also expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled about our partnership with AIC to offer students a traditional residential experience while pursuing their degree at STCC. Students who live on college campuses often find it easier to engage in campus events and take advantage of the amenities, support, and services provided. We look forward to offering this option to our students.”

President Benitez sees these partnerships as contributing to a more promising future for the region. “The more we can create these bridges, the more we can create and strengthen these pipelines, the better our communities will be served.”