Howard College

Nestled in the heart of West Texas, Howard College stands as a vibrant public community college dedicated to empowering its 4,623 students. Founded in 1945 as Howard County Junior College in Big Spring, it has grown from humble beginnings in a former military hospital wing to a comprehensive educational institution. Today, under the leadership of President Cheryl Sparks, Howard College continues its legacy of providing accessible, quality education that prepares students for both further academic pursuits and direct entry into the workforce.

From its foundational campus, Howard College quickly expanded its footprint to better serve the surrounding communities. Just five years after its inception, the college moved to a sprawling 100-acre site in southeast Big Spring, developing robust facilities that included classrooms, a library, practical-arts buildings, and dormitories. This strategic growth continued with the establishment of its Lamesa campus in 1972 and the launch of classes in San Angelo the very next year, solidifying its commitment to regional accessibility and educational outreach.

The institution officially adopted the name Howard College by 1974, reflecting its broader reach and evolving identity. Its commitment to specialized education became particularly evident with the opening of the Southwest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf in 1980, a unique institution on a portion of the former Webb Air Force Base. Furthermore, in 1981, Howard College took over a significant nursing program in San Angelo, reinforcing its dedication to vital professional training. This rich history of expansion and innovation underscores Howard College's role as a dynamic educational hub, offering diverse academic strengths and a student experience deeply rooted in community and career readiness.