Tri-County Community College

Tri-County Community College, serving students since 1964, is a vital public community college focused on empowering its region through practical education. With over 4,700 students, TCCC offers a dynamic environment where individuals can pursue vocational and trade skills, prepare for further education, and engage in diverse community activities. Its commitment to the student experience is evident with facilities like the Jarrett/Oglesby Center for early childhood education and a student activities wing, fostering a supportive and engaging campus life. The college also embraces regional collaboration, as shown by its Mountain Community Chorus, a class that evolved into a beloved regional choir.

What began as the Tri-County Industrial Education Center in 1964 to provide vocational training quickly evolved. After securing a lease at the former Cherokee County Prison Camp, the institution steadily grew, transitioning to a "technical institute" in 1978 and achieving full accreditation as a two-year community college in 1985. This journey reflects TCCC's dedication to expanding educational opportunities and adapting to the needs of its diverse service area. Key infrastructural developments, like the Jeff Enloe building and the Graham County Center, mark its continuous expansion and commitment to accessibility.

TCCC's academic strengths are rooted in its practical, hands-on approach, offering essential vocational and trade classes alongside college transfer programs. The campus also hosts the Tri-County Early College High School, providing a unique pathway for younger students. The college continually innovates, opening a four-story Fire and Rescue Training Center and the Cherokee County Center of Applied Technology. Looking ahead, TCCC is poised for significant growth with plans for a 33,000-square-foot cultural arts and workforce center, and the acquisition of an indoor firing range for its Basic Law Enforcement Training program, further solidifying its role as a regional leader in workforce development and community enrichment.

The college's regional impact extends beyond its North Carolina borders, demonstrated by its pioneering move in Fall 2023 to offer in-state tuition to residents of specific Georgia counties. This initiative underscores TCCC's dedication to broader educational access and its recognition of the interconnectedness of the tri-state area. Under the leadership of President Donna Tipton-Rogers, the first female president appointed in 2008, Tri-County Community College remains committed to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking educational environment for all its students.