Skip to main content

The Monday Minute with Dr. Williams

Monday Minute

November 24, 2025

As we approach fall break, I want to express my deep gratitude for our entire College community. Remarkable work is happening across the College—from opportunities for community and belonging, to expanded support services and academic flexibility that help our students thrive. I hope you have a restful break with family and friends. Monday Minute will take a break next week and return on December 8.

Celebrating Culture And Community

In this edition of Backpacks on the Gonew window, I had the pleasure of speaking with Karel, president of the African Student Association, at the Cultural Arts Center on the Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Karel and members demonstrated a dance celebrating African culture, highlighting how the club fosters community and cultural pride. He shared how Montgomery College has supported his leadership journey and passions, from joining the club to becoming president. Karel’s experience exemplifies how Montgomery College strives to create a sense of belonging for all—it is a place where students build community, develop leadership skills, and create meaningful experiences that enrich our College community.

Backpacks on the Go with Dr. Williams and Karel

Mc Earns Hunger-free Campus Grant To Support Students 

Montgomery College received a grant from the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program to boost efforts addressing student food insecurity. This statewide initiative supports colleges creating sustainable solutions for students’ basic food needs. MC’s proposal was recognized for its leadership and commitment to ensuring students have access to the resources needed to succeed. The grant will raise awareness about services and strengthen partnerships with community organizations. Thanks to the Student Wellness Centernew window and Student Affairs team for their dedication. This award reflects our community’s shared commitment to holistic student support.

Mc Joins Effort To Expand Shortened Academic Terms

The College has joined a national initiative to expand shortened academic terms, helping students successfully manage college with work, family, and other responsibilities. The project—a national effort led by the Achieving the Dream network—supports colleges in scaling flexible, evidence-based schedules that enable students to focus on fewer courses at a time, maintain momentum, and complete credentials more quickly. Research shows that these shorter terms can boost course completion, persistence, and confidence. They can be a great complement to the longer semester format that has been a traditional approach in post-secondary education. I am grateful to Academic Affairs for their leadership in this innovative work. Participation in this national cohort underscores the College’s commitment to student-centered, equity-focused approaches that advance success in college and beyond.

With Raptor Regards,
 Dr. Jermaine F. Williams signature

Dr. Jermaine F. Williams 
President 
Facebook | DrWilliamsMC
Instagram | @drwilliamsmc

Archive of Monday Minutes

2025