Columbia-Greene Community College

Nestled in the heart of New York, Columbia-Greene Community College (C-GCC) stands as a testament to community collaboration and accessible education. Born from a joint vision of the Columbia County Board of Supervisors and the Greene County Legislature, C-GCC has been a foundational institution, offering a stepping stone to higher education and career readiness for students across the region. It embodies the spirit of local empowerment, providing quality learning opportunities close to home.

The college's journey began with the establishment of a steering committee in early 1966, quickly gaining momentum with initial funding and a charter granted by the SUNY Board of Trustees and the New York State Board of Regents by the end of that same year. Officially opening its doors in September 1969 under its first president, Edward J. Owen, C-GCC welcomed an inaugural class of 350 full-time and part-time students. For its first five transformative years, the college operated out of a charming old schoolhouse in Athens, New York, fostering a close-knit learning environment.

Demonstrating a rapid commitment to academic excellence, C-GCC celebrated its first graduating class just two years after opening, awarding 35 associate degrees during a ceremony at Catskill High School in 1971. This early success was further solidified when the college achieved full accreditation status by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education in 1975, affirming its dedication to high educational standards and student success. Today, C-GCC continues its legacy, empowering students to achieve their academic and professional goals within a supportive, community-focused setting.