East Los Angeles College

East Los Angeles College (ELAC) is a vibrant hub deeply woven into the fabric of East Los Angeles, offering a unique blend of academic innovation and profound community spirit. It's where future leaders find their path and where the pulse of local culture beats strong—from its historic Weingart Stadium, a venue for local high school graduations and the legendary "East L.A. Classic" football game, to its nationally recognized men's basketball team featured on Netflix's "Last Chance U: Basketball."

ELAC's roots run deep, established in June 1945 to meet the pressing demand for higher education for servicemen returning from World War II. Starting with just 373 students and 19 faculty members on the Garfield High School campus, ELAC quickly grew to become only the second city college in the Los Angeles area. This foundational commitment to serving its community, particularly veterans, laid the groundwork for its enduring legacy as an accessible educational gateway.

Today, ELAC continues to break new ground, proudly offering the state's first community college program in Central American studies, reflecting its commitment to diverse academic exploration. Relocated to its expansive 82-acre site in 1948, just six miles from the Los Angeles Civic Center, ELAC provides a dynamic learning environment. It’s a place where students not only achieve their academic goals but also become integral members of a rich and supportive community, preparing them for impactful futures.