University Center of North Puget Sound celebrates 1,000th student

Jennifer Tait, a Western Washington University elementary education student taking classes in Everett through Western's program at the University Center of North Puget Sound, was honored Oct. 11 as the center's 1,000th enrolled student since the center's move to Everett Community College's campus.

Tait, of Mountlake Terrace, is the mother of two young children. She graduated with honors from Everett Community College in summer 2011.

"The program is convenient; that's the most important part," said Tait, after receiving flowers and a certificate from the University Center.

Western's elementary education program is one of more than 25 bachelor's and master's degree programs offered through the University Center by its eight partner colleges and universities.

The University Center "expands access for sound degrees and sound careers for many who wouldn't otherwise have that access," said Larry Antil, assistant dean for outreach programs at Western, who joined the celebration.

The University Center served 642 students in 2010-11 and has 475 students enrolled for fall 2011. The center has been located on the Everett Community College campus since March 2009.