History of Community College

  • Joliet Community College

    The nations first junior college. This added a 5th and 6th year of courses to a high school curriculum.
  • Job training programs

    These programs were offered by Community Colleges to ease widespread unemployment.
  • Junior College districts created

    AZ legislature authorized State Board of Directors for Junior Colleges and enacted legislation to create Junior College districts supported by County and State funds.
  • Mesa Community College

    Mesa Community college opens and welcomes 330 students.
  • Civil Rights Act

    Civil Rights Act stops racial segregation in schools.
  • Vietnam War

    College enrollment increases due to the Vietnam War. Student try to evade the draft.
  • Glendale Community College

    The permanent location for Glendale Community College opens. First community college to West Valley and second in the newly formed Maricopa Community College District.
  • American Educational system recognizes Community Colleges

    The American Educational System recognized Community colleges as a major part of the Educational System. Enrollments just about doubled from 2.2 million in 1970 to 4.3 million by 1980.
  • Partnerships with communities and employers.

    It was recommended that colleges create partnerships with communities and employers and making facilities available for workforce training.
  • GCC North Campus opens

    Due to an increase need for affordable, accessible higher education; GCC North opens to accommodate.
  • Capital Funds provided

    Election provided capital funds for expansion and renovation to the main Glendale Campus facilities. Added Science buildings with innovative hands on teaching capabilities.
  • GCC and MCC recognized by Governor

    Governor Janet Napolitano proclaimed April 12, 2005 as Glendale Community College and Mesa Community College Day and solutes both for their valuable contributions to Arizona.
  • 50 Year Celebration

    Glendale Community College Celebrates 50 years of Academic success and Student Achievement.