Cowley County Community College

Cowley County Community College stands as a vibrant public institution with a rich history, currently serving 2,166 students. Since its inception, Cowley College has been dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality education, evolving significantly to meet the needs of its community and beyond. It's a place where students can find both strong academic programs and practical vocational training, all within a supportive environment.

The college's journey began on September 11, 1922, as the Arkansas City Junior College (ACJC). Initially operating from the top, then the basement, of Arkansas City High School – earning it the affectionate nickname "Basement University" – the college gradually grew, constructing its first dedicated building in 1952. A pivotal moment arrived in 1965 when it was renamed Cowley County Community College and Vocational-Technical School. Just two years later, in 1967, the community elected its own board of trustees, allowing the college to assume independent control of its operations, marking a significant step in its development.

Under the transformative leadership of President Gwendel A. "Gwen" Nelson, beginning in 1968, Cowley College embarked on a remarkable era of expansion. Nelson was instrumental in securing ownership of the main campus land, vastly expanding academic and vocational programs, and overseeing the construction of six new buildings, including the college's first dormitories. This period cemented Cowley's reputation for comprehensive offerings and a robust student experience. The college continues to expand its reach, notably with the establishment of the Sumner County Campus in Wellington, planned to open in 2018, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to serving a broader regional community.