We are embarking on a truly special milestone for Washtenaw Community College — our 60th anniversary.
In January 1965, Washtenaw County voters approved the formation of a new community
college, and just over a year later, in September 1966, the first students walked
through our doors. Those students’ belief in the promise of education created the
foundation for what has grown into one of the most respected community colleges in
the nation.
WCC exists because of our supportive community. Because of you!
From the decisive 1965 vote that established the college to the resounding 3-to-1 approval of our millage renewal and restoration in 2020, Washtenaw County residents have supported WCC every step of the way.
That support allowed us to expand programs, strengthen student services, build modern facilities, and ensure that higher education remains within reach for everyone in our county.
As we celebrate 60 years of opening doors, I want to recognize what we’ve accomplished and thank our residents for helping us fulfill our mission.
From the earliest days, WCC has welcomed learners of every age, background and ambition — whether they were beginning their college journey, retraining for a new career, or sharpening their skills to meet the demands of a changing economy. Sixty years later, that’s still happening on our campus every day.
We are proud to honor the visionaries who built this institution and celebrate the countless students, faculty, staff and community partners who shaped it.
The history of Washtenaw Community College is, at its heart, the story of a community that believes in the power of education. Thank you for being part of that story for the past six decades — and for walking with us into the next.
Tags: 60th Anniversary, On The Record, President's Column, September 2025