Moraine Valley Community College

Moraine Valley Community College stands as a vibrant hub of education, deeply rooted in its community. Its unique name, inspired by the meeting point of the Tinley Moraine and Valparaiso Moraine, reflects its profound connection to its geographical location. The college is recognized for its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education within modern facilities, notably exemplified by the Southwest Education Center in Tinley Park, which boasts prestigious LEED Platinum certification for its exceptional "green" performance.

The college's journey began in 1967, born from the dedicated efforts of the Oak Lawn Rotary Club. After opening its initial temporary office, classes commenced in leased warehouses in 1968, marking the genesis of its educational mission. This was quickly followed by the establishment of seven temporary buildings on the Palos Hills campus in 1969. The transition from temporary structures to a robust, permanent campus began in 1970 with the construction of the first permanent building, which opened its doors in 1972. This period marked the start of continuous campus development, with new facilities added as recently as 2014, and the last temporary building being replaced in 1994.

Moraine Valley's dedication to expanding educational access is further demonstrated by its extension sites. The Education Center at Blue Island opened in 2004, followed by the Southwest Education Center in Tinley Park in 2010. These sites bring learning opportunities closer to the community, reinforcing the college's role as a vital educational resource. While specific academic programs are not detailed, the ongoing investment in state-of-the-art, sustainable infrastructure underscores a progressive approach to learning, preparing students for diverse pathways whether they seek to transfer to four-year institutions, enter the workforce, or pursue lifelong learning.