For one hundred years, College of Marin has been woven into the fabric of our community, a place where dreams take shape, potential is realized, and lives are transformed. As we celebrate this remarkable centennial milestone, we reflect with deep gratitude on the enduring partnership between the community's college and the people of Marin County.
It is both a privilege and a responsibility to lead College of Marin during this historic moment. Our college exists because of a bold act of community commitment back in 1926, when Marin voters approved a 15-cent tax to establish what was originally known as Marin Junior College. That vote was both a financial investment and a declaration of faith in education's power to strengthen our community and create pathways to prosperity for all residents.
That faith has been renewed countless times over the past century. Through every generation, Marin has supported this College; and in turn, College of Marin has served as an engine of opportunity, welcoming students from every background and circumstance. We have educated nurses and firefighters, artists and engineers, small business owners and transfer students bound for the world's finest universities. We have provided a second chance to those seeking new directions and a first chance to those pursuing their educational dreams.
Over the course of this week, I hope you will be able to explore the rich academic, cultural, and community work happening across the College during its 100th year. Each of these exhibits and activities is a testament to what a community can accomplish when it invests in accessible, excellent education.
As we honor our past and celebrate our present, we also look toward defining our future with renewed commitment. College of Marin will continue to be a catalyst for positive change, a great place to learn and grow, and a cornerstone of our community for the next hundred years.
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey.
Jonathan Eldridge, Ed.D.
Superintendent/President