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Cerritos College

Norwalk, CA

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Quick Facts

Public community college
Type
22,731
Total Students
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Jose Fierro

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

About Cerritos College

Cerritos College: A vibrant community hub, shaping futures since 1955 for over 22,000 students.

Cerritos College stands as a vibrant cornerstone of higher education, welcoming over 22,731 students into its diverse community. As a public community college, it provides accessible and high-quality learning opportunities that serve as a launchpad for academic and professional success. Under the leadership of President Jose Fierro, Cerritos College is committed to fostering an environment where every student can thrive.

Established in 1955, the college carries a rich history tied directly to its local heritage. Named after the historic Rancho Los Cerritos, its very existence played a pivotal role in the region's identity, even inspiring the neighboring city of Dairy Valley to rename itself Cerritos. This deep connection to the community is reflected in its district, which proudly serves students from Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Norwalk, La Mirada, and Hawaiian Gardens, truly making it a college for its community.

From its humble beginnings renting classrooms at Excelsior High School in 1956 to moving into its permanent, dedicated campus in 1959, Cerritos College has consistently grown to meet the evolving needs of its students. It's a place where academic pathways are forged, careers are launched, and personal growth is paramount. Students benefit from an inclusive learning environment designed to support various educational goals, whether they're pursuing transfer degrees, vocational training, or personal enrichment, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all.

Key Highlights

  • Educates a vibrant community of over 22,731 students.
  • Founded in 1955, boasting a rich history of community service.
  • Its name, derived from Rancho Los Cerritos, inspired the renaming of the city of Cerritos.
  • Serves a broad district encompassing seven distinct cities: Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Norwalk, La Mirada, and Hawaiian Gardens.
  • A public community college dedicated to accessible, high-quality education.
  • Led by President Jose Fierro.

Timeline

1955
Cerritos College founded.
1956
Classrooms initially rented at Excelsior High School (September).
1957
Cerritos Junior College District won legal case to use undeveloped land for an educational site (July 24).
1959
College moved from Excelsior High School to its current site (September).

Leadership

Jose Fierro
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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