Henry Ford College

Why did Henry Ford, a titan of industry, invest in education? Here at Henry Ford College, that question hangs in the air, woven into the very brick and mortar. Henry Ford College isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a testament to a vision. A vision that saw education not as a privilege, but as a tool for empowerment. Henry Ford College started as Fordson Junior College in 1938, thanks to the Dearborn Fordson Public Schools Board of Education. It was a humble beginning, sharing space with Fordson High School. It was almost like adding 13th and 14th grades for local students. But its destiny was far greater. The name changed to Dearborn Junior College in 1946, a stepping stone to its current identity. The real transformation came in 1952. The Henry Ford Trade School, a separate entity founded by Ford himself in 1916, closed its doors. Its assets, a substantial $1.25 million, were gifted to the then Dearborn Junior College. This act of generosity wasn’t random. The Trade School, with its focus on giving underprivileged young men a chance at a skilled trade, aligned perfectly with the college’s expanding mission. The college became Henry Ford Community College, a tribute to its benefactor and the values he represented. Henry Ford College always served its community. But the closing of the Trade School expanded its focus, providing scholarships for Trade School alumni and bolstering existing programs. It became a hub for those seeking continued education, especially tradesmen looking to enhance their skills. Henry Ford College has continued to grow, adding bachelor’s degrees, like the one in Culinary Arts, which prompted another name change in 2014 to simply Henry Ford College. Today, Henry Ford College offers over 150 program options, from associate degrees to workforce training. It’s a place where students can explore a wide range of fields, from arts and sciences to technology and healthcare. Henry Ford College’s commitment to accessible education is clear. It boasts in-district tuition rates among the lowest in the state. This ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of a student’s future. So, as you stand here, before Henry Ford College, remember it’s more than just buildings and classrooms. It’s a living legacy. A testament to the power of education to transform lives and build brighter futures, driven by the vision of a man who believed in empowering individuals to reach their full potential.