Highline Community College

In 1961, a dream took root in Des Moines. A dream of accessible education, of opportunity blooming where only portable classrooms once stood. This dream, my friends, is Highline Community College. Highline Community College first opened its doors to 385 eager students on the campus of Glacier High School. Can you picture those initial 15 instructors, shaping the minds of future mayors, authors, actors, and even an NBA player? Highline Community College was King County’s first community college. Its creation was a testament to the vision of a dedicated citizens’ committee. They saw a need and relentlessly pursued it, even challenging a state law that stood in their way. This very law prevented junior colleges in counties that already housed four-year institutions. Thanks to their efforts, the law was amended, and Highline Community College was born. The college quickly outgrew its temporary home. In 1964, under the leadership of Dr. M.A. “Pat” Allan, Highline Community College moved to its current location, a sprawling 80-acre campus overlooking the breathtaking Puget Sound. Imagine attending classes with the Olympic Mountains as your backdrop. The initial curriculum was diverse, ranging from academic transfer courses to practical skills like small boat handling and home landscaping. An interesting challenge for the growing college was mitigating the roar of airplanes from nearby Sea-Tac Airport. This led to innovative architectural solutions like soundproofing and windowless buildings. Highline Community College continues to thrive, a vibrant hub of diversity and learning. It boasts over 15,000 students, representing more than 120 cultures, making it the most diverse higher education institution in Washington state. The college has expanded its offerings beyond associate degrees. It now offers applied bachelor’s degrees, furthering its mission of accessible education. As you stand here, consider the thousands of lives touched by Highline Community College. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier institution. Highline Community College remains a testament to the power of community vision and dedication to education.