IRONDEQUOIT, N.Y. -- Some students who attended Everest Institute on Portland Avenue rallied outside the school Monday morning after its parent organization, Corinthian Colleges, closed the Rochester campus for good.

The company announced it has discontinued instruction at 28 campuses across the country, affecting some 16,000 students.

Monroe Community College announced Monday afternoon that it will help Everest students work toward completing their degrees.

About 400 students attended classes at Everest. Many found out the school was closed via a company e-mail.

"A lot of people got emails. I never received an email. I heard it from a friend of mine who called me on the phone and told me. I had no idea this was even happening," said Kim Lobene.

"It is like a big family here and all of us are here crying because we have no answers," said Iesha Outar.

CCI said it was unable to find a buyer for Everest and due to state and federal actions, the only option was to close. It has two meetings scheduled for students to learn more about other educational options, transcripts, diplomas and loan questions. The meetings are scheduled at the Portland Avenue campus from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday and on Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Statement from Monroe Community College on Everest Institute:

“Completing a college degree is often a gateway to a career and financial stability not just for the student, but the entire family. It’s important to the Greater Rochester community that we help Everest Institute students find a new path to completing their college degree.

“To that end, MCC has had preliminary conversations with officials from Corinthian Colleges, Inc., parent company of Everest Institute. Additionally, we’re gearing up to work with Everest students on options for completing their education, including transferring of credits and developing a program completion plan. Our MCC staff are working through the unique circumstances of these former Everest Institute students and are ready to help them transition their studies.”

Randy Bowen

Assistant Vice President, Enrollment Management

Monroe Community College