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The Raritan Valley Community College Board of Trustees has approved a $62 million operating budget for FY 2026.

“Raritan Valley Community College is confronting two persistent challenges—the Governor’s proposed cuts in vital state aid to New Jersey’s community colleges, along with the increasing costs in such areas as healthcare and operating expenses. The new budget will ensure that RVCC has the critical resources to continue assisting our inspiring students, supporting them as they transform their lives and embark on new journeys, while keeping tuition at a relatively low level,” said RVCC President Michael J. McDonough.

The Board also approved a $7 million major capital budget, which will be provided by Somerset and Hunterdon counties and the State of NJ through Chapter 12 funds. “We are incredibly grateful to the Counties of Somerset and Hunterdon for their support of Raritan Valley Community College and their continuous commitment to maintaining the College’s excellence in the community and beyond,” said Dr. McDonough.

The major capital budget will be used mostly for building and infrastructure projects and repairs, including mechanical system and infrastructure upgrades, improvements to the Physical Education building, roof replacements, major walkway and roadway repairs, and classroom renovations.

The Board also approved a $750,000 minor capital budget, which is designated primarily for technology and other instructional and building-related equipment.

The operating budget reflects a 2.8% increase over last year. The increase is due mainly to rises in costs for employees, including healthcare and other benefits, and a continued decline in the size of the area high school graduation classes.

The new budget includes a $6 per credit tuition increase, which the RVCC Board of Trustees approved at the March 18 Board meeting. The new tuition of $192 per credit would take effect for the Fall 2025 Semester.

The budget now goes to the Board of School Estimate for approval. The Board of School Estimate includes two county commissioners from Somerset County, two county commissioners from Hunterdon County, and two members of the RVCC Board of Trustees.

Ranked by WalletHub.com, Intelligent.com, and CollegeEvaluator.com as the #1 community college in New Jersey, Raritan Valley Community College has been serving as an academic and cultural center for Somerset and Hunterdon County residents for over 50 years. The College has been nationally recognized for its service to the community and environmental stewardship. It is home to  a Planetarium, Science Education Institute, and 3M Observatory; a Theatre offering professional performances for all ages; and an Honors College for high achieving students.

The College offers approximately 90 associate degrees and certificates, as well as career training and professional development courses. RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 23, 2025

Media contact: Donna Stolzer, 908-526-1200, ext. 8383

PR #95