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Kilgore College

Kilgore, TX

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Quick Facts

“Your Future Starts Here!”, and “Blue Steel”

1935
Founded
Public community college
Type
3,133
Total Students
$24M
Endowment
$2K
Tuition (In-State)
$5K
Tuition (Out-State)
$7K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Staci Martin

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Kilgore College

Kilgore College: Your future starts here, rooted in East Texas oil boom heritage.

Step into Kilgore College, a vibrant public community college that has been a launching pad for futures since 1935. Embodying its mottos, “Your Future Starts Here!” and the spirited “Blue Steel,” Kilgore College is dedicated to providing an accessible and impactful education for its approximately 5,000 students, preparing them for careers, transfers to four-year institutions, and fulfilling lives.

The college's very foundation is a testament to community vision and prosperity. Born from the economic boom of the East Texas oil discovery in the late 1930s, Kilgore College was established to harness this newfound wealth for educational advancement. It was the foresight of local superintendent W.L. Dodson and the expertise of B.E. Masters, then president of Amarillo Junior College, that brought this dream to fruition, creating an institution designed to serve the region's burgeoning population.

From its modest beginnings in the fall of 1935, with 11 dedicated faculty members guiding 229 pioneering students in temporary facilities, Kilgore College quickly established itself as a cornerstone of East Texas education. This commitment to student success and community growth continues to define the college today, fostering an environment where every student can discover their path and achieve their goals. Under the leadership of President Staci Martin, the college remains focused on delivering quality academic and vocational programs.

Choosing Kilgore College means embracing an institution with a rich history, a strong sense of community, and an unwavering commitment to preparing you for whatever comes next. Whether you're seeking to jumpstart a career, pursue further education, or simply explore new possibilities, Kilgore College offers the support, resources, and "Blue Steel" spirit to help you succeed.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1935, its establishment was uniquely funded by the economic boom of the East Texas oil discovery.
  • A thriving public community college serving approximately 5,000 students.
  • Operates under the inspiring mottos: “Your Future Starts Here!” and the spirited “Blue Steel.”
  • Pioneering leadership: Established by Superintendent W.L. Dodson and B.E. Masters.
  • Began classes in Fall 1935 with 11 faculty members and 229 inaugural students.

Timeline

1930
East Texas oil boom begins near Kilgore, generating significant revenue.
1935
W.L. Dodson brings B.E. Masters to Kilgore to assist in creating the college.
1935
Kilgore College officially established in August.
1935
W.L. Dodson named the first president and B.E. Masters the first dean.
1935
College classes begin in Fall with 11 faculty members and 229 students.
🏛️
91 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Staci Martin
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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