Record Scholarship Support

Eastern Sierra College Center Celebrates Significant Growth and Unveils Expanded Student Support

BISHOP, CA [October 15, 2025] – Cerro Coso Community College’s Bishop Campus is showing impressive credential numbers and outlined major expansions in student support for the 2024-2025 academic year, demonstrating its deep commitment to local education.

Cerro Coso proudly celebrated the success of its spring graduates, who collectively earned a remarkable 75 academic credentials, comprising 57 degrees and 18 certificates. A major highlight was the graduation of the first-ever student from Big Pine High School, who earned a Clinical Medical Assisting certificate and is transferring to the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) to pursue veterinary studies.

“These accomplishments reflect the dedication of our students and the strong community backing that makes these journeys possible,” said Kimberly Blackwell.

Record Scholarship Support

The Eastern Sierra Foundation (ESF) distributed a total of 135 scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year (17 for Summer, 68 for Fall, and 50 for Spring), and is already on pace to support 70 students this fall. This crucial financial aid ensures local students from Inyo County to have the resources to pursue their educational goals, directly addressing the barrier of college affordability.

Expanding Access and New Programs

Looking ahead, Cerro Coso is taking significant steps to broaden its reach and reduce education costs for local families in Inyo County. The Community College is working with local high schools to expand Early College enrollment opportunities, allowing students to earn college credit for free while in high school. New programs including an Agriculture program and a fully online hospitality degree and certificate, plus wildland fire shows expansion in offerings that align with the needs of the regional workforce and local community.

Next Up

We are excited to invite the community to our upcoming First Gen Week: Resource Fair at Cerro Coso’s Bishop Campus on Tuesday, November 4th from 3:00–6:00 PM!

This event is part of a college-wide celebration of our vibrant and growing first-generation student community, many of whom are also student-parents balancing education with family responsibilities.

Event Details: