Hudson Valley Community College

Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) stands as a beacon of public education, living its motto, "Be Bold. Be a Viking." Founded in 1953, this public community college has deep roots in serving its community, evolving from a vocational school established post-WWII to a comprehensive institution known for its commitment to workforce development and academic excellence, led by President Michael Brophy.

HVCC's history is marked by significant innovation and advocacy. What began in 1946 as a vocational school for returning World War II veterans officially became the Hudson Valley Technical Institute in 1953, initially offering five vocational training programs. A pivotal moment came with the landmark case Grimm v. Rensselaer County in 1958, which upheld the county's right to fund college construction, setting a crucial precedent for community colleges across New York State. This commitment to growth led to a name change in 1959 to Hudson Valley Community College and the completion of a modern new campus in 1961.

Today, HVCC continues to invest in state-of-the-art facilities and programs designed to meet the evolving needs of students and the regional workforce. Recent expansions include a $47.4 million Science Center completed in 2013, offering advanced laboratory and classroom spaces for biological sciences, biotechnology, physical science, and environmental science. Further bolstering its commitment to high-demand fields, the college opened the $14.5 million Gene F. Haas Center for Advanced Manufacturing Skills in 2019, significantly expanding its capacity to train skilled professionals in advanced manufacturing technology. These facilities provide students with hands-on experience using cutting-edge equipment, preparing them for successful careers.