Lower Columbia College

Lower Columbia College, a public community college founded in 1934, has a rich history of fostering educational growth in the region. What began as Lower Columbia Junior College, with initial classes held in local music, hardware, and furniture stores for a modest 42-55 students, has blossomed into a vibrant institution serving over 4,000 students across 27 buildings. This journey exemplifies LCC's enduring commitment to providing accessible, quality education that adapts to the needs of its community.

The college's early years were marked by resilience, as it navigated financial challenges and even an earthquake that led to the condemnation of one of its early classroom locations. Despite these hurdles, LCC steadily expanded, acquiring its first campus land in 1942 and erecting its inaugural permanent building, Old Main, in 1950. The unwavering support from the community, notably the Lower Columbia College League, was instrumental in achieving this stability and growth.

Evolving from a junior college to a comprehensive community college in 1961, and joining the state-supported system in 1967, LCC solidified its role as a vital educational hub. Today, it stands as a testament to its foundational mission: to offer diverse academic pathways and enriching student experiences. Prospective students and their families will find a supportive environment focused on preparing individuals for successful careers and seamless transitions to four-year universities.