Los Angeles Valley College logo

Los Angeles Valley College

Valley Glen, CA

publicassociates

Quick Facts

1949
Founded
Public community college
Type
18,308
Total Students
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Barry Gribbons

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

About Los Angeles Valley College

Los Angeles Valley College: Your pathway to success in the San Fernando Valley.

Los Angeles Valley College, affectionately known as LAVC or "Valley College," stands as a vibrant public community college nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, California. A proud member of the Los Angeles Community College District, LAVC has been a cornerstone of accessible higher education since its establishment. With a diverse student body of over 18,308 individuals, Valley College offers a welcoming environment where students can pursue their academic and career goals, cheered on by their Monarchs sports teams in green and gold.

Founded on September 12, 1949, LAVC was established to meet the soaring educational demands of the rapidly expanding San Fernando Valley. What began on the campus of Van Nuys High School quickly found its permanent home in 1951—a spacious 105-acre urban campus in Valley Glen. This early commitment to growth and community engagement was further exemplified in 1954 with the founding of the Athenaeum, an initiative that brought renowned cultural programs, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and internationally celebrated speakers like Eleanor Roosevelt and Margaret Mead, directly to the campus.

Today, Los Angeles Valley College continues its legacy as an accredited institution committed to student success. As one of nine colleges within the LACCD, it provides a crucial pathway for students seeking to transfer to four-year universities or develop essential career skills. The college fosters a rich and inclusive student experience, reflected in its diverse population and its dedication to providing comprehensive support. Despite past challenges, including a notable cyber incident and campus security events, LAVC remains a resilient and vital educational hub, constantly evolving to meet the needs of its community. The ongoing development of facilities like the Valley Academic and Cultural Center underscores its future-focused vision.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1949 to serve the booming San Fernando Valley community.
  • Hosts a vibrant and diverse community of over 18,308 students.
  • Located on an expansive 105-acre urban campus in Valley Glen, Los Angeles.
  • Part of the prestigious Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD), one of its nine colleges.
  • Home to the Monarchs sports teams, proudly sporting green and gold.
  • Historically enriched campus life through its Athenaeum, featuring international speakers and cultural events.
  • Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.

Timeline

1949
Founded on September 12 and officially chartered, initially located on the campus of Van Nuys High School.
1951
Moved to its permanent 105-acre site on Fulton Avenue in Valley Glen.
1954
Faculty founded the Athenaeum, bringing community programs and internationally known speakers to campus.
1969
The Los Angeles Community College District was formed, separating its nine colleges from the Los Angeles Unified School District.
2016
Experienced a malicious cyberattack, leading the LACCD to pay a $28,000 Bitcoin ransom for decryption.
2016
The Los Angeles Community College District approved the construction of the Valley Academic and Cultural Center building.
🏛️
77 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Barry Gribbons
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Los Angeles Valley College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search