Mountain Gateway Community College joins Rapid Maroons to fast-track student success

Students at Mountain Gateway Community College in Clifton Forge now have an easier path to a four-year degree, thanks to a partnership with Roanoke College’s Rapid Maroons program. 

Rapid Maroons cuts through red tape for transfer students to help them move seamlessly to the next step of their education. Services include one-on-one advising support and a path to direct admission at Roanoke College. Students also qualify for early access to campus events, organizations and other perks of being a Maroon. 

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Mountain Gateway Community College into the Rapid Maroons network,” said Roanoke College President Frank Shushok Jr. “This important partnership reflects our shared belief in every learner’s promise and potential, and our deep commitment to creating clear, integrated, and affordable pathways that open doors and support their success in college and beyond.” 

Rapid Maroons has grown steadily since it was launched with the mission of improving access and opportunity for students across the region. Partner schools now include Mountain Gateway, Virginia Western Community College and New River Community College. 

Key benefits of the program include: 

• Personalized advising: Rapid Maroons takes the stress out of transferring credits with one-on-one academic advising support from Roanoke. In coordination with Mountain Gateway, these sessions help ensure students are on track to pursue their dream major at Roanoke.
• Direct admission: Students in the program who earn a transfer-oriented associate’s degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 are eligible for direct enrollment at Roanoke. That means no need to reapply or wait to find out if you’ve been accepted. 
• Campus community: Students who join Rapid Maroons are immediately welcomed into Roanoke’s vibrant campus community. From day one, they can begin connecting with fellow Maroons by taking part in student clubs, campus events, and other resources. 

“Mountain Gateway Community College is committed to removing barriers and expanding opportunities for our students,” said Dr. John Rainone, president of Mountain Gateway Community College. “By joining the Rapid Maroons network, we’re creating a more seamless, supportive pathway to a four-year degree and future success. This partnership with Roanoke College represents the kind of innovation and collaboration that truly puts students first.”

To join Rapid Maroons, students just need to fill out a simple form. To learn more about the program, visit roanoke.edu/RapidMaroons.