Alexandria, LA (December 29, 2025) — The CLTCC Year in Review 2025 highlights a year of growth, recognition, and leadership transition.
Central Louisiana Technical Community College celebrated major accomplishments across academics, workforce training, and community partnerships throughout 2025.
Most notably, CLTCC earned recognition as the best community college in Louisiana. The Aspen Institute also named CLTCC a top community college for the third consecutive time.
Meanwhile, enrollment increased by 13 percent, marking four straight semesters of growth. Graduate numbers also continued to rise across academic and workforce programs.
Additionally, the college announced an upcoming leadership transition. Chancellor Dr. James R. “Jimmy” Sawtelle III will retire after more than a decade of service.
The college named Dr. Heather S. Poole, Executive Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, as Chancellor-elect.
Sawtelle credited the college’s success to community, education, and industry partners. He also praised faculty, staff, and students for their dedication.
He expressed confidence in Poole’s leadership, citing her commitment to high-demand and high-wage career pathways.
As part of the CLTCC Year in Review 2025, the college highlighted several milestone achievements.
CLTCC exceeded the state’s Reaching Prosperity by 2030 goal by 40 percent. The college produced 2,818 completers, far above the 2,008 target.
Students earned 400 Allied Health credentials in 400 days. Programs included Practical Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, and Certified Nursing Assistant.
Students also excelled in competition. The Welding Fabrication Team won gold at SkillsUSA Louisiana, alongside multiple individual medalists.
Moreover, CLTCC advanced major campus projects. The Rod Brady Campus in Jena was expedited, while the Ward H. Nash-Avoyelles Campus secured building funds.
Philanthropic support remained strong. Donors contributed more than $735,000 toward facilities and endowed scholarships.
Financial leadership also stood out. A Louisiana Legislative Audit reported zero findings.
Finally, CLTCC maintained tuition at 2015 rates for a record tenth year.
Applications for the upcoming semester are now open at cltcc.edu/apply.
Central Louisiana Technical Community College serves seven parishes through five campuses, correctional education programs, and workforce partnerships.
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