Kilgore College

Nestled in the heart of East Texas, Kilgore College stands as a vibrant public community college with a truly unique origin story. Its establishment in 1935 was a direct result of the immense revenue generated by the booming East Texas oil fields, making it a testament to community foresight and investment. With inspiring mottos like “Your Future Starts Here!” and “Blue Steel,” Kilgore College clearly signals its dedication to student success and community spirit.

The college's foundation was spearheaded by local visionary W.L. Dodson, superintendent of the Kilgore school district, who enlisted the expertise of Amarillo Junior College president B.E. Masters. Their collaborative effort quickly brought the institution to life, with college classes commencing in the fall of 1935. Initially serving 229 students with a dedicated faculty of 11, Kilgore College has steadily grown from its modest beginnings, nurtured by the very prosperity that brought it into existence.

Today, Kilgore College continues its mission as a crucial educational gateway for 5,000 students, offering accessible pathways to future careers and further education. As a public community college, it provides a supportive and dynamic environment where students can discover their passions, acquire valuable skills, and build a strong foundation for whatever comes next. Its rich history, deeply interwoven with the region's economic heritage, makes it not just an institution of learning, but a symbol of progress and opportunity.