Historically, Hudson County Community College (HCCC) in New Jersey has included developmental education within its mission. As a result of a major re-evaluation of the College's offerings and operations during 1992, it was recommended that: (1) the college formulate curricula that would serve students who do not progress to college-level study so that they will obtain skills to enable them to enter the working world; (2) maintain assessment and developmental services for academically underprepared students; and (3) obtain alternative funding programs for students in pre-college remedial programs. The mission statement approved in April 1993 included the importance of access regardless of educational preparation and basic skills instruction. In a comprehensive review of academic progress of students who began as freshmen in 1989, 20% began in degree programs; 30% began in developmental education; and 50% began in English-as-a-Second-Language course. The evidence overwhelmingly justifies the inclusion of a developmental education goal in HCCC's mission. The challenge for the college is to carry out this function at such a high level of excellence that developmental education students will be able to hold gainful employment; take part in community life; and continue their education in degree programs. HCCC must help the community understand the necessity of developmental education and support that domain of the mission. (KP)