By Okon Ekpenyong

One of the most exciting updates to the Eastland community plan is the establishment of a substantial New Learning Center Campus by Columbus State Community College. It will be known as Columbus State Community College Eastland Career Center.

This unique center will be a beacon of educational excellence, primarily focusing on First Responders and Construction Programs. The new learning center will be on the Westside of the First Church of God campus, just down the road from the Old Eastland Mall on Refuge. 

“This addition will significantly enhance the community. It will provide educational opportunities for local students, increase access to higher education in the area, and empower and inspire them to reach their full potential,” said Dave Cofer, the Senior Director in the Department of Community Partnerships for Columbus State, during a town hall meeting at First Church of God on August 21. The purpose of the meeting was to provide the latest update on the New Learning Center Project.

The proposed development of the Columbus State Learning Center, which would offer training in construction trades and emergency services, is a beacon of hope for immigrants and refugees in the area. This center would greatly expand their skills and job opportunities, promising a brighter future in the community. It’s a testament to the potential of education to transform lives and communities. 

Notably, Whitehall, despite its distance from Eastland, is home to a significant new American community in central Ohio. Former Whitehall City Councilmember Zachary Woodruff, a prominent civic leader in Whitehall, is the head of the college’s real estate development. His belief in the potential of the learning center to bring opportunities to the area and honor his community connection is a testament to the local leadership’s commitment to the project, instilling confidence in its success.

Woodruff grew up in Whitehall and remembers visiting Eastland Mall with his family. He was undoubtedly sad when the mall closed. However, he believes that once the Learning Center is up and running through the Eastland Community Initiative, there will be new developments on the Eastland Mall property, and the area will bloom again.

On July 23, 2024, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, along with other lawmakers, Pastor of First Church of God, and President of Columbus State David Harrison, addressed the public, providing deeper insight into the future of the New Learning Center.

Bishop Timothy Clarke of First Church says that the area is affectionately called the City of Refuge, and adding the Learning Center is not an individual accomplishment but instead will be something for us to do for this city.

In an interview with New Americans Magazine, a local community advocate says that the use of bonds in building relationships and addressing severe issues is evident in the planning and execution of the New Learning Center. “Despite challenges such as limited public participation in the planning phase in past projects, the vision for this property goes beyond what is immediately apparent to the public. Access to construction and first responder programs has been historically limited in this area, but their potential impact on families is significant.” 

State Senator Hearcel Craig, whose district includes part of the new learning center’s area, stated that the announcement marks a transformational opportunity for the Eastland Community. “The center will redefine education while serving as a cornerstone for Eastland’s revitalization plan, offering residents the chance to strive for future generations.” This strong support from local leaders is a source of encouragement and reassurance for the community, demonstrating the widespread belief in the project’s potential.

The Learning Center will cover various college construction programs, such as residential construction management, estimating/procurement, and field supervision. It will also include first responder programs like Fire Science Technologies, Red Cross Lifeguarding & Waterfront Skills & Certificate, Rescue Technician Certificate, and Paramedics, providing a comprehensive educational experience.

The school website says the new location will cater to approximately 2,600 students annually. The campus will also prioritize various programs, such as architectural drafting, civil engineering technology, construction management, environmental science, GIS, HVAC technology, landscape design and management, facilities maintenance, welding, surveying, and criminal justice. This comprehensive offering and potential community-oriented programming are something to look forward to and be excited about.

“The main focus will be on establishing a career development center, and this is something that we are intentional about. It will provide an opportunity for students to gain a clear understanding and insight into promising, sustainable careers and economic opportunities that can truly change the trajectory of families,” President Harrison emphasized.

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