Tri-County Gets Toll-Free Telephone Number

CONTACT: SHARON COLCOLOUGH, EXT. 1790

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 5/3/2002
(By Lisa Garrett)

PENDLETON --- Tri-County Technical College now has a toll-free number for callers living in the 864 area code service area.

Effective immediately, customers may use 1-866-269-5677 instead of dialing the Anderson, Oconee and Pickens phone numbers. Tri-County's main number, 646-8361, will remain the same, and most College offices now have direct telephone numbers for added convenience to customers.

"We are continuing our toll-free service offer to our customers while increasing the number of available lines," said Sharon Colcolough, director of personnel and administrative services at the College. "To accomplish this, the FX lines (Anderson, Oconee and Pickens phone numbers) are being eliminated, and the toll-free number will take their place. Another convenience to the customers is the ability to dial employees' offices directly. Callers no longer have to go through the automated attendant or switchboard if they know the direct number of the employee or office they wish to reach. Instead, you may call the employee or office directly. This is a more efficient way of using our phone system," she added.

Colcolough said that callers who don't subscribe to the area plus calling service and don't want to pay for a long distance call, may dial the toll-free number and enter the extension or wait for assistance from the operator.

"These changes are part of our customer service enhancement plan and are more cost effective for the College," said Colcolough. We're using our telecommunication resources more efficiently while improving our customer service."
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