MCC on Main Introduces Programs to Enhance the Downtown Community

Manchester Community College Arts and Education Center, also known as MCC on Main, is introducing new programs for fall.

MCC on Main, the Victorian-era commercial building located at 903 Main Street, was donated to the Town of Manchester by First Niagara in 2012 to support Manchester Community College’s expansion into the downtown community and to help expand educational programming.

Through the introduction of the college’s presence, as well as that of Axis901, a business incubation center that shares the building, the downtown Manchester brand has been strengthened and rejuvenated by a new generation of creative and innovative residents.

“MCC on Main is excited to launch our fall programming that directly supports the center’s efforts to enhance cultural arts experiences for Manchester residents and beyond,” said Michele Colletti, MCC on Main director. “We have a wonderful array of classes, a talented group of instructors and something to appeal to all ages.”

New offerings feature a 10-week class led by MCC professors to help high school students prepare to apply to art school. “The Comprehensive College Portfolio” is designed to help participants put together more effective portfolios for submission with their college applications. This class is open to any art student regardless of whether they are attending MCC or not.

Also scheduled are classes in jewelry making and digital photography, and an expanded health and wellness programing will feature “Introduction to Dance,” especially designed for music and theater majors; and “Introduction to Ballroom Dance.”

Also coming this fall is the return of the popular “Burgers, Beers and Managing Your Bucks” series, which provides a chance for young adults to network and get answers to challenging financial questions from local financial and business experts.

In addition, MCC on Main is instituting a First Sunday Jazz series, with live music in the Dehn Gallery from 1:30 to 3 p.m., and on Friday evenings, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., trivia fans can take part in “Trivia on Main,” a fun and lively contest to test competitors’ knowledge of arts, entertainment, sports, business and leisure. Prizes will be awarded.

MCC’s Continuing Education division also is offering classes at the downtown facility, located at 903 Main Street. For more information on courses in computer skills for both office and creative work, grant writing and other topics, check the catalog.