Derived from our parent Web site, information in today’s column focuses on the Virginia Community College System, of which Paul D. Camp is proud to be a member.

At our community colleges across the state, students can earn associate’s degrees and then transfer to one of Virginia’s four-year institutions — at less than half the average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year college. Or they can embark on paths to new, rewarding careers through workforce programs that provide technical preparation, career readiness certificates and on-the-job training through apprenticeships.

Virginia’s community colleges deliver high-quality education and workforce training throughout the state, with programs and courses to serve the distinct demands of every region.

As we all know, a college education is essential for success in the 21st century. For individuals, it is a credential necessary to access the jobs and opportunities that will lead to a better life. For the commonwealth and its communities, it is a precondition for competing and succeeding in the worldwide competition for talent and innovation.

With 23 colleges on 40 campuses located throughout the state, Virginia’s Community Colleges are committed to serving Virginia families and helping them acquire the knowledge and skills to seize the opportunities of today and tomorrow.  Following are fast facts underscoring what our community colleges are doing by the numbers:

249,295 — The number of students being served by Virginia’s community colleges this year.

2 out of 3 — The ratio of Virginia’s public undergraduate college students who are enrolled in Virginia’s community colleges.

15,636 — The number of degrees, diplomas and certificates earned last year at Virginia’s community colleges.

1/3 — The average tuition and fees at Virginia’s community colleges, compared to the same tuition and fees at Virginia’s public four-year institutions.

28,731 — The number of high school juniors and seniors earning college credit while in high school through Virginia’s community college dual enrollment courses.

50 — The percentage of Virginia community college graduates who pursue a bachelor’s degree.