Germanna Community College

As a non-residential college, Germanna students identified a need for better connection with the college and each other, and access to critical college services from academic support, clubs and events to other essential resources, including:

• Food insecurity – Limited access to nutritious meals.

• Housing instability – Unreliable or unsafe living conditions.

• Transportation barriers – Difficulty accessing campus due to limited transit options.

• Mental health concerns – Need for counseling and wellness support.

• Technology access – Limited availability of reliable internet or devices for coursework.

• Lack of belonging – Difficulty feeling connected to the campus community.

These barriers threaten academic persistence and success, prompting Germanna to implement a comprehensive solution to holistically support student needs. 

By using CampusGroups as a centralized hub for essential resources, Germanna helps students stay focused on academics, leading to improved retention and success. Through the Germanna Cares Program, accessible via the CampusGroups platform, students can access:

• Emergency funding for financial hardships.

• An on-campus food pantry with healthy meal options.

• Housing and transportation assistance to reduce logistical barriers.

• Technology access to support academic success.

• Connections to state and local resources through partnerships like Single Stop™ and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program.

The CampusGroups platform connects students to mental health resources, including a 24/7 tele-mental health service, ensuring support is always accessible. Through its chat features, student organization and event registration, as well as a campus-wide directory, the platform also fosters connections and a sense of belonging, helping to reduce stress and increase student well-being.

Students can join clubs and organizations via CampusGroups or start their own club with support from the office of Student Life and Leadership. CampusGroups also streamlines access to events, resources, and services, fostering a strong sense of community. Events like the Spring Gala and Student Appreciation Days celebrate student achievements, while a culture of care and investment in student success strengthens connections across campus.

Through its holistic support initiatives, Germanna Community College demonstrates how addressing barriers outside the classroom can directly impact student success and well-being. By fostering a supportive environment and celebrating achievements, Germanna creates a culture where students feel valued, empowered, and equipped to reach their full potential.