MESA, Arizona -- January 10, 2025 -- Mesa Community College is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025, marking six decades of student success, academic growth and community impact. Commemorating this milestone, MCC launched a dedicated website, mesacc.edu/60 featuring historical highlights and information about upcoming anniversary events and activities.

A rich history of growth and achievement
MCC’s roots date back to 1963 when it opened as an extension of Phoenix College in a small building at 809 W. Main Street in downtown Mesa. Originally called Mesa Extension, the college became Mesa Community College in 1965, following its transition into a standalone institution. That same year, construction began on a new 160-acre campus at Dobson Road and Southern Avenue. The new campus opened its doors in 1966 with 2,053 students, beginning a legacy of service to the community.

In 2001, MCC expanded its reach in the East Valley, with the addition of the Red Mountain Campus, which currently focuses on allied health sciences training to meet the growing need for dental hygienists, emergency medical technicians, paramedics and nurse assistants.

For the past six decades, MCC built a legacy based on improving student lives and enriching the local community through academic excellence, cutting-edge career training and workforce development programs. The college has played a vital role in the economic growth of Arizona, while shaping the careers and futures of thousands of students.

“MCC has been unwavering in its focus on creating an inclusive environment for students where everyone is supported to achieve success,” said MCC President Richard Daniel, Ph.D. “In addition, we deeply value our partnerships with the business community which enable us to expand curricula and develop new programs to meet the immediate needs of our community and those of the foreseeable future.”

An Agent for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Known for its dedication to student achievement, MCC’s mission is to create an inclusive and vibrant learning community where everyone is supported to achieve success. Named a Hispanic Serving Institution, MCC’s student body is diverse, with 33% identifying as Hispanic/Latino and 20% Black, Asian/Pacific Islander, American Indian/Alaska Native or multiracial. The college earned national acclaim for its innovations and programs uplifting student completion including its Construction Trades program, iBelong Student Success Initiative, Arizona Semiconductor Technician Quick Start and an Enterprise IT Professional for Apple Technology program.

“We strive to meet our students where they are in their journey,” said Dr. Daniel.” By empowering students from all backgrounds to succeed we are contributing to building a more diverse and skilled workforce reflecting the communities we serve.”

Supporting Student Success
MCC has also earned recognition for its support of student success, including Guided Pathways to Success, enabling students to more smoothly transition to Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, The University of Arizona and an extensive network of universities across the country.

“From our Enrollment and Student Success teams to our Care Team and Tutoring Center staff, we are committed to equipping students with the support necessary to succeed in attaining their educational goals and their next endeavors,” said Dr. Daniel.

Public-private partnerships within the community have enabled MCC to expand and enhance student programs and services and develop new options. These include nationally recognized programs such as the Mesa College Promise, a partnership with the city of Mesa that awards recent high school graduates and adult learners the funding for tuition and fees to attend MCC.

A bright future
With enrollment continuing to grow, MCC remains steadfast in providing high-quality, affordable education. The college had more than 17,400 students enrolled in Fall 2024, and student retention rates continue to rise, thanks in large part to the college’s robust support services. In the 2023-2024 academic year, over 2,500 students earned associate degrees and certificates, with those numbers continuing to trend upward.

The recent passage of Proposition 486 which permanently adjusts the expenditure limit for the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) ensures that MCC and other district colleges can continue providing affordable education and workforce development opportunities to students throughout Maricopa County.

“With the support of the community and continued investments in education, MCC will continue to innovate and expand to meet the workforce needs of our community and the students we serve,” said Dr. Daniel.

Learn about MCC’s most recent accomplishments at mesacc.edu/report and recent announcements and events at mesacc.edu/news.

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Media contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu or 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College (MCC), which is celebrating its 60th anniversary during 2025, is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving over 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. For nearly 60 years, MCC has been a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services and is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges. The MCC American Indian Institute supports students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. MCC's diverse student body includes hundreds of international students. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education and training. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional lands of the O'odham, Piipaash, and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.