Strengthening Education and Workforce Development
The Mississippi Community College Board (MCCB) strengthens education and workforce training across the state by coordinating the efforts of Mississippi’s community colleges. Through statewide leadership, collaboration, and strategic support, the MCCB expands affordable pathways to education, advances high-quality instruction and training, and aligns programs with the needs of students, communities, and Mississippi’s workforce. Together, these efforts ensure that community colleges remain vital engines of opportunity and economic growth across all 82 counties.
“When Mississippi invests in education and training, we create pathways to success for students, strengthen our communities, and build a resilient workforce for the future. MCCB is proud to support our community colleges as they provide life-changing opportunities for people across our state.”
— Kell Smith, Executive Director, Mississippi Community College Board
Guiding Our Work with a Clear Mission and Vision
Our mission and vision provide direction for the MCCB’s statewide leadership and coordination efforts.
Mission
To advance the community college system through coordination, support, leadership, and advocacy.
Vision
To foster an environment of excellence that promotes world-class education and job training for a more prosperous Mississippi.
Building a Strong, Coordinated System
The MCCB was established by the Mississippi Legislature in 1986 to provide statewide coordination for Mississippi’s community and junior colleges. This structure preserves the unique strengths of each institution while amplifying shared resources, consistent standards, and collective impact. Mississippi’s community college system—one of the oldest in the nation—continues to earn national recognition for excellence, driven by the strong collaboration between the colleges and the MCCB.
The agency is led by a Governor appointed, ten-member Board and an Executive Director that guides statewide policy and supports the continued growth of the community college system. Two Board Members are selected from each of Mississippi’s five Congressional districts as defined before the 2000 federal census. All members serve staggered six-year terms.
Supporting Colleges Statewide
The MCCB provides statewide coordination, services, and resources that help community colleges meet the needs of students, employers, and communities. This work includes:
- Expanding access to affordable education and workforce opportunities
- Strengthening pathways to universities and high-wage careers
- Collaborating with business and industry to meet workforce needs statewide
- Advancing adult education, literacy, and lifelong learning
- Supporting career and technical education aligned with industry standards
- Delivering shared technology, research, and services that save time and cost
- Leading policy and resource coordination across the community college system
- Administering state funds that support college operations and student success
Together, these efforts help Mississippians learn skills, earn credentials, and build brighter futures each year.