Houston City College Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher joined the February 3 meeting of HCC Katy’s steering committee discussion, emphasizing the college’s strong alignment with the community. The meeting took place at the campus at 22910 Colonial Parkway in Katy and included State Representative Mike Schofield, representatives from the City of Katy, Katy ISD, local business leaders and HCC Katy staff.

The chancellor thanked attendees for their support of the name change from “Houston Community College” to “Houston City College.” HCC Northwest President Zachary Hodges highlighted the institution’s enrollment growth, which continues to increase, despite a national decline in college enrollment. Total enrollment for spring 2026 for the entire HCC system is up 8.75 percent, compared to spring 2026, he said. Enrollment at HCC Northwest, which includes the Katy campus, is up 8.84 percent over the previous spring. Hodges also described ongoing efforts to boost enrollment, which include national leadership in cybersecurity and AI, and a robust engineering program.

Hodges and KISD representatives updated the steering committee on the growth in the dual enrollment program through which high school students can earn college credit while still in high school. KISD officials said that the biggest need is for qualified instructors for the program, which is rapidly growing in popularity.

Ford Fisher also outlined partnerships with Tesla, Google, and FoxConn, as well as grants from Houston Endowment for student training. She underscored the affordability of HCC courses, the importance of keeping tuition low, and the availability of certificate programs that lead directly to employment.

She stressed the need to listen to students’ needs and respond accordingly, praised HCC Northwest President Hodges and the steering committee. Ford Fisher distributed an informational packet that included a survey soliciting feedback on HCC value to the community, facilities and addition of more workforce programs and other services which could be brought to the Katy campus. She also discussed the Houston Reconnect initiative, which focuses on re-engaging students who did not complete a degree or certificate.

HCC trustee Dave Wilson discussed the value of travel in gaining broader perspectives and highlighted how rapidly education is changing. He emphasized the board’s creative approach to funding, opportunities to increase enrollment while reducing student costs, and the importance of community-based partnerships.

Hodges also announced the retirement of Kathleen Anzivino and introduced Ken Tidwell as the incoming Vice President of Instructional and Student Services.

The steering committee will meet again in April, HCC officials said.