April showers bring May flowers — and summer and fall enrollment opportunities. I know it just started getting warm, but we’re already talking about fall at Danville Area Community College.
Fall is when most of the new programs or program updates roll out, and Fall ’26 isn’t any different. Recently I’ve been working with Professor Kathy Hunter to share the updates to her Applied Computer Science program that make it unique in our area.
As artificial intelligence reshapes how work gets done, DACC’s program focuses on how data, cloud computing, automation, and AI function together in real-world environments. The result is a curriculum built not just for relevance — but for momentum.
“AI is changing everything,” said Professor Kathy Hunter, Applied Computer Science. “Students need to understand how to work with it, build with it, and adapt as it evolves. That’s what this program delivers.”
The demand for these skills continues to grow. Despite the fear of replacement by AI, IT jobs are projected to increase by 31% through 2030, with average starting salaries around $65,000 — and the potential to reach six figures. For many students, an Associate in Applied Science degree offers a faster path into the workforce without sacrificing opportunity.
Another fall opportunity will be our Esports team. The official NJCAAE season is wrapping up and DACC’s team had another outstanding year, but many team members are finishing their coursework and moving on, leaving vacancies for the fall.
This year’s team enters postseason play with top performers across multiple titles. Michael Wease finished No. 1 nationally in Chess during the regular season, reinforcing the program’s strength in strategic competition.
The College also earned the No. 1 national ranking in Mario Kart 4v4, with the team of Chase Williams, Tyler Mahoney, Logan Allen, and Braden Bulla. All but Allen also placed in the top four nationally in singles.
And, displaying brains as well as gaming brawn, four Esports student-athletes earned NJCAAE All-Academic Team honors (minimum 3.75 GPA, full-time enrollment): Braden Bulla, Logan Allen, Chase Williams, and Michael Wease.
Finally, the College would like to thank everyone who came out in support of the NJCAA Men’s Division II National Basketball Tournament last month. Our college team works hard under the direction of Brian Hensgen and Tim Bunton, but we couldn’t make the event as successful as it is without community volunteers, sponsors, and boosters. For 33 years, DACC has had a reputation as the host with the best organizers and volunteers, and the warmest community hospitality in the country.
A special shout out to everyone who came out in support of the Jaguars as they took third place in this year’s tournament. The gym was packed to capacity the night we played Parkland, and the men felt your love. Thank you!