Visits from Political Figures Over the Years

Over Community College of Philadelphia’s 60 years, several notable politicians have visited campus to engage with students, faculty and staff on various topics, including the importance of access to higher education.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi visited the College in 2014 for an event titled, “When Women Succeed, America Succeeds,” which called to action ways to strengthen economic security for women. Pelosi discussed the importance of wage equality and how that would positively affect families across America. Pelosi and the other panelists at the event offered their stories in support of how a living wage, paid sick time and affordable child care would provide financial stability.

Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Samuel Alito Jr. was honored in 2015 with the Judge Edward R. Becker Citizenship Award, named after the late Judge, known for his intellect, unbiased views and humility. Having grown up nearby in Trenton, NJ, Justice Alito has a strong affinity for Philadelphia and was honored to receive the award in the College’s company.

Vice President Joe Biden and Second Lady Dr. Jill Biden came to campus in 2016 to discuss tuition-free models. In the year prior, CCP launched the 50^th Anniversary PROMISE Scholarship, which supports the dreams of Pell-eligible, highly motivated graduates of Philadelphia high schools by allowing them to attend the College tuition-free. The Bidens utilized their visit to CCP to discuss their own plans for a program that would provide $100 million in grants to expand job-training partnerships at community colleges.

And most recently, in 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris visited the College during National Voter Registration Day to engage with around 70 students who worked to educate and register voters. She rallied students around the election that year, urging them to use their vote to share their voice. She also encouraged them to focus on interpersonal communication, their studies, taking care of themselves and remaining civically engaged.