Since its beginnings 60 years ago, Mesa Community College has been an economic, cultural and educational leader, partnering with communities, business and government to provide the intellectual machinery necessary to effect positive change in the East Valley.
Here you will find a compendium of information summarizing MCC's 60th anniversary including news, photos and videos.
News
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Overview
Watch an overview of 60 years of Mesa Community College's history in 60 seconds with this brief video.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Arts
Join us for a quick behind-the-scenes look at the Arts at Mesa Community College as we honor our 60th anniversary. Watch this tribute to the artists, educators, and visionaries who make our campus a creative home.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Facilities at MCC
See how Mesa Community College's facilities have changed from before our first groundbreaking until today.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Student Life at MCC
Student life at Mesa Community College has been a big part of our past, present, and future. Watch this short video of our students from the past 60 years.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Graduation at MCC
Our graduation ceremonies have changed quite a bit since we were founded. Watch this short video of our commencements from the past 60 years.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Thunderbirds
The Thunderbird is a mythological spirit associated with thunder and lightning, symbolizing strength, protection, and the forces of nature. In 1974, Mesa Community College embraced this powerful symbol, adopting the Thunderbird as its official mascot. Since then, Thor the Thunderbird has undergone many transformations, but one thing has never changed — his unwavering pride and loyalty to MCC.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Finale
Join us as we look back on a memorable year with highlights from our 60th anniversary events held throughout the year.
60 Years - MCC Memories: Legacy & Lessons
Watch a series of interviews with our alumni, faculty, and friends as they share their memories and milestones from 60 years of history.
Press Release
Mesa Community College celebrates 60th anniversary, launches website to explore its history and engage community
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.”
Supporting Student Success
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.”
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.
Originally published at https://www.mesacc.edu/news/press-release/mesa-community-college-celebrates-60th-anniversary-launches-website-explore-its-history-and-engage
Points of Pride
Download a printable PDF highlighting some of our Points of Pride for the past 60 years.
Throwback Thorsday
We are kicking off our diamond anniversary with Throwback Thorsdays and what better way to kick off 2025 than by showcasing our very own mascot—Thor! Here’s Thor and MCC President Richard J. Daniel, Ph.D. during Thor’s 50th birthday celebration in Nov. 2024.
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