SUNY Westchester Community College

SUNY Westchester Community College (WCC), a vibrant public institution, is dedicated to offering accessible and high-quality education. Serving over 9,700 students under the leadership of President Belinda S. Miles, WCC upholds its motto, "Building Minds, Building Futures," by providing a strong foundation for both academic transfer and career advancement.

The college's roots trace back to 1946 as the New York Institute of Applied Arts and Sciences. In 1953, facing state closure, the Westchester community rallied, securing local operational responsibility and renaming it Westchester Community College. This transition, fueled by enthusiastic support from local organizations and a unique funding model shared by the state, county, and students, marked its rebirth as a true community-driven institution.

WCC began by offering practical Associate of Applied Sciences degrees in vital fields such as business administration, building construction, electrical and mechanical technologies, industrial chemistry, food administration, and medical-dental office work. Alongside these specialized programs, a robust curriculum in English, mathematics, and social sciences ensured a well-rounded education. The college was committed to attracting top talent, offering competitive faculty salaries and providing both day and evening courses to accommodate diverse student needs.

From its initial enrollment of 550 students paying an affordable $125 per semester for in-state tuition, WCC fostered a dynamic student life with extracurriculars ranging from music and golf to basketball, track, chess, radio, and photography. After a prolonged search and a fascinating acquisition story involving the Gaisman estate and the John A. Hartford property, the college finally found its permanent home on the expansive Valhalla estate, a site that was strategically chosen for its central location and accessibility.