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Mesa Community College

Mesa, AZ

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Quick Facts

1965
Founded
Public community college
Type
12,049
Total Students
$2K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Richard Daniel Ph.D.

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

About Mesa Community College

Mesa Community College: Arizona's cornerstone for accessible education since 1965.

Mesa Community College (MCC) stands as a vibrant public community college, a testament to growth and community commitment in Arizona. What began as a humble extension branch of Phoenix College in 1963 with just 330 students has blossomed into a comprehensive institution serving over 15,772 individuals today, firmly established as a separate entity since 1965. MCC is known for its expansive campus and continuous evolution, providing a robust foundation for learning and career development.

Throughout its history, MCC has demonstrated a strong dedication to expanding educational opportunities. The college's original 120-acre campus, purchased with community support in 1964, has grown significantly with numerous buildings dedicated to science, technology, nursing, business, liberal arts, and the arts. This growth culminated in the establishment of the Red Mountain Campus in 2000, further extending MCC's reach and specialized offerings, underscoring its historical significance as a dynamic educational hub.

Prospective students will find a welcoming and well-equipped environment at MCC. The college continually invests in modern facilities, from the Paul A. Elsner Library opened in 1999 to the contemporary enrollment center (2015) and art museum (2016). With a diverse range of academic programs supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a rich history of community engagement, including a visit from President George W. Bush in 2004 to discuss job training, MCC fosters a student experience focused on success and preparation for the future.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1965, growing from an extension branch of Phoenix College to an independent institution.
  • Serves a large student body of 15,772, offering accessible higher education.
  • The main campus was established on 120 acres in Mesa, with continuous expansion over decades.
  • Home to the Paul A. Elsner Library, a new, larger library opened in 1999.
  • Expanded its reach with the groundbreaking of the Red Mountain Campus in 2000.
  • Visited by then-President George W. Bush in 2004 to discuss a $250 million federal grant for job training.
  • Boasts modern facilities including an enrollment center (2015) and an art museum (2016).

Timeline

1963
Launched as an extension branch of Phoenix College by Mart Godinez.
1964
Mesa students voted 'Hokams' as the mascot; capital funds enabled the purchase of 120 acres for a new campus.
1965
Officially named Mesa Community College and separated from Phoenix College.
1968
Graduated its first class on the new campus; library and classroom building completed.
1974
Mascot changed from Hokam to Thunderbird; Helena Howe appointed president.
1987
Bar code technology came to the library as part of a new automation system.
1999
The Paul A. Elsner Library and a new life science building opened.
2000
Phase I construction began for the Red Mountain Campus.
2004
Visited by President George W. Bush to discuss job training proposals.
2016
A new art museum was added to the main campus.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Richard Daniel Ph.D.
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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