ACC Celebrates 75th Anniversary

In honor of its rich history, Alvin Community College celebrated its 75th Anniversary during an event on April 30.

Members of the community had the opportunity to tour a historical walk around campus, watch demonstrations from college programs and participate in family activities while enjoying performances from the college Jazz Band and Choir.

There was also an exhibit of college memorabilia and photos which were collected and put on display in the Student Center Fine Arts Gallery.

“Over the past 75 years, we have fostered a culture of innovation and excellence,” ACC President Dr. Robert J. Exley said. “ACC has been a pioneer in higher education, being the first in the state and the country to offer unique, in-demand programs that help students advance in their lives. We’re dedicated to cultivating a better community through an educated workforce. We will continue to serve our students and our community with dedication and excellence.”

Several alumni from the first class of students in 1949 were recognized. Members of the first class present at the ceremony were: Jamie Blackwell, Billy Dewitt, Louise Wood Johnson, Joan Canady McNabb, Larry Phillips, Barbara McCandless Stephens and George Tacquard.

Culinary Arts student Miguel Soliz spoke and said ACC completely changed his life and offered him direction when he needed it most. The staff, his fellow students and ACC Chef Laura Trigo have been inspiring for Soliz who said they have influenced him to make his life better.

“The faculty here are the most genuine people and will do everything they possibly can to help you,” Soliz said. “I could not have had a better group of people to work and study alongside. Do not be afraid to take that leap of faith and pursue what you are most passionate about.”

Texas Senator Mayes Middleton and Rep. Ed Thompson were on hand to present proclamations from the Legislature honoring the college’s anniversary.

“It means so much to so many people,” Thompson said. “You have elevated families with generational changes. It is amazing what ACC has done.”

“It is an incredible achievement to see,” Middleton said. “Excellence through achievement is what Alvin Community College is about.”

A commemorative marker was added to the campus in honor of the 75th anniversary. The red-lit ACC emblem greets visitors as they approach the college’s Welcome Center entrance.

“It is more than just a work of art,” Dr. Exley said. “It is a representation of our commitment to innovation and growth and the pursuit of knowledge.”

At the close of the ceremony, the Community Choir and Jazz Band performed a rendition of the ACC school song, which was written in 1972.

ACC was founded in November 1948 and its first classes started in the Fall 1949.  Since then, an estimated 200,000 students have taken courses at the college. The college was originally housed on the Alvin High School campus before moving to its current location on Mustang Road in 1963.

To learn more about the anniversary, there is additional content including archive photos, video interviews with alumni, college fun facts and more at www.alvincollege.edu/75.

John Tompkins

Communications Coordinator

Alvin Community College

281-756-3551