TCC Celebrates 60 Years
Your Story, Our History: 60 Years of TCC Together
Over the past 60 years, Tacoma Community College has become a nationally-recognized institution of higher learning thanks to a Tacoma community that recognizes the importance of higher education being accessible to its people.
Be a part of this milestone as TCC shares 60 stories from alumni, current and former employees, and community members who have been involved with the college. Share your story with us today.
History
On September 13, 1965, Tacoma Community College opened its doors to the public. The founding of the College was the culmination of four years of coordinated effort, steadfast leadership and grassroots community support. Built around the idea that educational opportunity is a critical component of a thriving community, TCC set forth on a mission to bring high-quality, affordable education to all, without regard to means or circumstance. Over the next 60 years, as thousands of students passed through the open door to previously unavailable opportunity and achievement, the strength and resilience of this simple idea would be tested.
Through economic hardship, social upheaval, changing job markets and times of crisis both global and local, Tacoma Community College would prove to be an enduring educational institution. This is the story of TCC, as told by the students, faculty, staff and community leaders who helped to build, develop and defend Tacoma’s open door college.
“The Open Door: A History of Tacoma Community College,” was written by Dean of Library & Learning Innovation Dale Coleman and is available online or on Amazon.
History Exhibition with TCC Archives
60 years of TCC history are stewarded in the TCC Archives, including photos, publications, interviews, and more. These unique materials will illustrate the college's story with a history exhibition on campus as a celebration of TCC’s 60th anniversary. Explore the rich history and lasting impact of TCC through our digital exhibition that expands on our history exhibition with in-depth archival milestones and reflections on the people and partnerships that have shaped the college.
TCC by the Numbers
TCC started with serving a body of 1084 students in 1965 has since served over 600,000 students and increased its numbers to over 10,000 students at present day.
Milestone Moments
Key dates in TCC's rich history.
Support TCC!
As we celebrate this milestone, we honor our past—but we’re even more excited about our future. We invite you to be part of the next chapter.