Community College History

First Community College

1901

The first community college built in the United States was called Joliet Junior College. This college was established in 1901, in the city of Joliet, Illinois. Junior (Community) Colleges grew in number from 20 in 1909 to 170 in 1919.

First Community College in Arizona

1920

The first community college, The Phoenix Junior College (now known as Phoenix College) was established in 1920. Arizona's state legislature established junior college districts in 1960. The Maricopa County Junior College District was created in 1962 by county voters, with Phoenix Junior College being part of the new structure.

PC Campus Buildings

1970

During the years 1965-1971, four other campuses were being constructed, the major portion of the district's resources were allocated to them. When they were firmly established attention turned to upgrading the facilities at PC. New buildings included the gymnasium, music, fine arts, student center, library, business-English, chemistry/biology/nursing and the maintenance compound.

Alumni Association (PCAA)

1988

Plans for formalizing the association were implemented and by March 1989 a team of 70 alumni members assisted by two college staff members, officially launched the formation of the Phoenix College Alumni Association (PCAA). The mission of the PCAA is to provide an environment for Alumni to share experiences, opportunities, and fellowship; and to offer a forum for the alumni of PC and the students through financial and non-financial programs."

Doubling Arizona’s Economic Growth

2016

Raising Arizona’s postsecondary attainment across all levels is key to the state’s continued economic competitiveness. A Georgetown University study projects that almost 70 % of Arizona jobs in 2020 will require a higher level of postsecondary attainment. “If we raise attainment levels to meet these opportunities, we can double or even triple the annual growth rate,”said Rich Nickel, president and CEO of College Success Arizona.

COVID-19

2019

As part of the effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus, public spaces such as schools, universities, and offices are closing down so that people can stay at home and prevent further spread.Classes and semesters are being delayed as staff and teachers acclimate to the new online platforms and try to switch their material to a new teaching style.