QVCC Workforce Development and Continuing Ed: Spring Open House, Programs, and LiR Continuing Ed Scholarship Fund Exceeds $50,000

The Quinebaug Valley Community College Workforce Development and Continuing Education Department has expanded in staff, programs, and funding.  With the recent growth of tuition assistance funds, more community members will have the opportunity for low or no-cost training to advance or start a career.

Patricia Meyer, the new Director of Workforce Development and Continuing Education, comes to QVCC from Fredrick Community College, MD with extensive experience in leading Workforce Development programs. Jennifer Armstrong, Continuing Education Aide and QVCC alumna, previously worked as a student worker at QVCC and is supporting enrollment of Workforce Development students.

The community is invited to attend one of the upcoming open house events to learn more about short-term workforce training options for this spring. Virtual Open House dates are January 13 or 20, from 5 – 6 p.m., and an in-person event is scheduled for the QVCC Willimantic location, 729 Main Street, on January 18 from 3p-4p. QVCC is offering courses in Certified Nursing Assistant, Introduction to Medical Cannabis, Computer Skills, Pharmacy Technician, Real Estate, Business Leadership Series, Business Office Professional, Project Management, Dementia Care, MLT National Exam Preparation, and Veterinary Assistant. More courses will be added in the spring including the popular Motorcycle Basic Riders Course.

Twenty-seven years ago, community leaders started Learning in Retirement (now called LiR) at Quinebaug Community College to offer advanced learning and social opportunities for adults in the Quiet Corner. In 2008, as a thank you to the college, LiR started an endowed scholarship fund for those students seeking a college degree and reached a goal of $50,000 in 2012. Bill Brower, former LiR President and QVCC Foundation member stated, “In 2012, LiR decided to endow another fund for students seeking professional certifications which would provide for better jobs/better lives. This year, despite not meeting because of COVID, we reached another $50,000.00 goal.”  QVCC Director of Institutional Advancement, Monique Wolanin stated, “QVCC is made better thanks to our long relationship with LiR as part of our learning community. In addition to their course offerings, LiR Members volunteer at College and Foundation events, serve as QVCC Foundation Members, and thanks to the generosity of many members, provide annual scholarships to both credit and workforce development students. LiR has endowed two funds totaling over $100,000!”.

More information:

To register for an open house event: January 13 OR January 20    January 18 In -person
Learn more about workforce development programs
Application for the application for tuition assistance and payment options

Questions and Contact Information: 860.932.4005 or Email

Released January 7, 2022