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Canada College

Redwood City, CA

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Quick Facts

From Here You Can Go Anywhere

1968
Founded
Public community college
Type
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Kim Lopez

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Canada College

Cañada College: From Here You Can Go Anywhere – your start to a brighter future.

Cañada College, established in 1968, stands as a pillar of public community education in the San Mateo Junior College District. Embodying its inspiring motto, "From Here You Can Go Anywhere," the college is dedicated to providing foundational education and pathways for students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. Nestled in a scenic location, Cañada College offers a welcoming environment for learning and growth.

The college's inception was part of a visionary 25-year district master plan, fueled by strong community support. With the approval of significant bond issues in 1957 and 1964, the San Mateo Junior College District strategically acquired land and developed its campuses. Cañada College officially opened its doors in September 1968, marking a pivotal moment in expanding accessible higher education in the region, shortly followed by Skyline College. Its very name, Cañada, is a nod to the natural beauty of its surroundings, reflecting a small canyon that connects it to the Crystal Springs Reservoir.

As a public community college, Cañada College focuses on providing high-quality, affordable education that serves as a launchpad for diverse student goals. Whether students are looking to transfer to four-year universities, gain valuable career skills, or explore new interests, the college offers comprehensive programs designed to facilitate success. The forward-thinking design, planned for an initial capacity of 2,000 students with expansion capability up to 8,000, reflects a commitment to future growth and student support, ensuring a robust and engaging learning experience for all who walk its halls.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1968 as a cornerstone of the San Mateo Junior College District.
  • Motto: "From Here You Can Go Anywhere," emphasizing student potential and pathways.
  • Emerged from a visionary 25-year district master plan, supported by two major bond issues totaling over $18 million.
  • Initial campus designed for 2,000 students, with plans for expansion to ultimately serve 8,000 day students.
  • Total campus construction cost $12.2 million, resulting in 241,000 square feet of modern educational buildings.
  • Named after Cañada Road, Spanish for a small canyon, reflecting its unique natural setting.

Timeline

1957
San Mateo Junior College District Board develops a 25-year master plan and voters approve a $5.9 million bond issue.
1962
A 131-acre site for Cañada College is purchased.
1963
The current College of San Mateo campus opens.
1964
District voters approve a second bond issue of $12.8 million; educational and architectural planning for Cañada College begins.
1966
Grading of the Cañada College site commences.
1967
Building construction contract for Cañada College is awarded.
1968
Cañada College holds its first classes for 2,000 students and officially opens.
1969
Skyline College opens.
🏛️
58 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Kim Lopez
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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