Allan Hancock College

Allan Hancock College, a vibrant public community college, stands as a cornerstone of education, proudly serving over 13,700 students. Nestled in a community rich with history, the college offers a diverse array of programs designed to empower individuals, foster economic vitality, and enrich the cultural landscape. Under the leadership of President Kevin G. Walthers, it continues its legacy of providing accessible, high-quality education.

The college's roots trace back to 1920, when it was established as Santa Maria Junior College by the Santa Maria High School District. A pivotal moment in its history occurred in 1954 when the college relocated to the former site of Allan Hancock Field. This location carries significant historical weight, having served as a primary training center for fighter pilots during World War II, under the guidance of G. Allan Hancock. In honor of this distinguished figure and the site's unique legacy, the institution soon adopted its current name, Allan Hancock College, cementing its connection to this rich aviation heritage.

Allan Hancock College has continuously invested in its campus to provide state-of-the-art facilities for its growing student body. Following a successful bond measure in 1958, the college embarked on a significant building program, rapidly expanding its infrastructure with the opening of key facilities like the business education and fine arts buildings in the mid-1960s, followed by industrial technology, gymnasium, administration, student services, and a performing arts center by 1968. This commitment to modern learning environments was further underscored in 2006 with the passing of a substantial $180-million bond measure, which fueled a decade of additional facility enhancements, including a remodeled Learning Resource Center, a new Community Education Building, and a cutting-edge two-story science building completed in 2007. These ongoing investments ensure that students have access to contemporary resources and innovative learning spaces.