Allen County Community College

Allen County Community College, originally established in 1923 as Iola Junior College, began its journey as a vital expansion within the local high school, addressing the needs of a growing population. Starting with a modest enrollment of 93 students on the third floor of Iola High School, it quickly demonstrated its essential role in the community. For over four decades, it served its students as part of the public school system, laying the groundwork for the independent institution it would become.

The college reached a pivotal moment in 1965 when a successful petition led to its separation, establishing it as Allen County Community Junior College. This independence was met with enthusiastic community support, evidenced by the 1966 approval of a $1.5 million bond issue for the construction of a dedicated main campus on the northern edge of Iola. This investment transformed the college, culminating in the opening of its 90-acre Iola Campus and its first classes in 1970, complete with a new 96-bed residence hall, Horton Hall.

Over the subsequent decades, Allen County Community College experienced significant growth and diversification. Recognizing the importance of practical, hands-on learning, the college acquired a 250-acre farm in 1979, specifically to enhance its agriculture program, later adding specialized animal, classroom, and horse barn facilities. The 1980s saw the college shorten its name and continue its expansion with additional residence halls like Winter Hall, further recreational facilities including an all-weather track and the 1800-square-foot Activities Building with a fitness center, and academic infrastructure such as a 15,000 square foot Technology Building and an Interactive Television Studio. This continuous evolution underscores ACCC's commitment to providing a dynamic and comprehensive educational experience for its students.