From Junior College to Community Icon: The History of Glendale Community College
Introduction
Glendale Community College (GCC), an institution that has evolved from its origins as Glendale Junior College, boasts a rich history intertwined with the development of the Glendale community itself. From its humble beginnings in the halls of Glendale Union High School to its modern, expansive campus, GCC has been a cornerstone of education and community engagement for nearly a century. Its legacy extends beyond academia, even inspiring the creation of the popular NBC show Community.
The Early Years: Establishing a Foundation (1927-1944)
Glendale Community College's story began in 1927 when it was founded as Glendale Junior College. Its initial purpose was to serve the Glendale Union High School District, which at that time included the communities of La Crescenta, Glendale, and Tujunga. For the first two years, from 1927 to 1929, classes were conducted within the buildings of Glendale Union High School, located at Broadway and Verdugo in Glendale.
In 1929, the college experienced its first relocation, moving to the Harvard School plant, still under the umbrella of the Glendale Union High School District. This location served as the academic home for Glendale Junior College until 1937. A pivotal year arrived in 1937 when a new facility, forming part of the present campus, was completed and occupied. This marked a significant step in the college's growth and development.
Prior to this move, in 1936, the Glendale Junior College District underwent a transformation, dissolving as a separate entity and becoming integrated into the newly formed Glendale Unified School District. This administrative change reflected the evolving educational landscape of the region. In 1944, the institution's name was officially changed to Glendale College, signifying its maturation and broader scope.
Evolution and Expansion: Becoming a Community College (1970-1981)
A significant shift occurred on July 1, 1970, when Glendale College became part of the Glendale Junior College District. This move further solidified its role as a community-focused institution. The college continued to grow and evolve, adapting to the changing needs of its student population and the surrounding community.
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A defining moment came on November 4, 1980, when Glendale voters approved a measure to establish separate boards for the college. This decision led to the creation of a board of trustees solely responsible for the governance of the Glendale Community College District. The new board officially took office in April 1981, marking a new era of focused leadership and strategic direction for the institution.
The Modern Campus: A Hub of Learning and Activity
Today, the Verdugo Campus of Glendale Community College spans 100 acres (40 ha) and comprises 15 permanent buildings. This expansive campus provides a comprehensive learning environment for a diverse student body.
The college is governed by a 5-member elected Board of Trustees, with members elected by geographical district, a system that became effective in 2017. Elections for the Glendale Community College Board of Trustees are held concurrently with the Glendale City Council and Glendale Unified School District Board of Education elections, taking place on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in April of odd-numbered years. This coordinated election schedule promotes community engagement and streamlines the voting process.
GCC maintains an open admissions policy, reflecting its commitment to providing accessible education to all members of the community. The college also offers credit for life experiences, recognizing the value of knowledge and skills gained outside of traditional academic settings.
Athletics and Student Life: Fostering a Vibrant Community
Glendale Community College boasts a vibrant athletic program, with its teams nicknamed the Vaqueros (men) and Lady Vaqueros (women). The college currently fields eight men's and eight women's varsity teams, providing opportunities for student-athletes to compete and excel.
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El Vaquero, the student newspaper established in 1927, serves as a vital source of news and information for the campus community. It provides a platform for student voices and perspectives, fostering a sense of connection and engagement.
Influence on Popular Culture: The "Community" Connection
Glendale Community College's influence extends beyond the realm of academia, reaching into popular culture. The NBC show Community, which premiered in the fall season of 2009, was inspired by GCC. The show uses the fictional setting of Greendale Community College, and its creator, Dan Harmon, has stated that the show was based on his own experiences attending Glendale Community College. This connection has brought national attention to GCC and solidified its place in the cultural landscape.
A Tagline that Resonates: "How Do You GCC?"
The tagline "How Do You GCC?" was developed to provoke a response from the audience. It asks the individual to think about their relationship with the college. This applies to students, members of the faculty and staff, community members and anyone that has interaction with Glendale Community College. The tagline encapsulates the college's commitment to individual growth, community engagement, and the diverse experiences that shape the GCC journey.
Notable Alumni
Donald D. Ryan Sherriff (born 1990), a Major League baseball pitcher, is among the notable alumni of Glendale Community College.
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