What started as a small junior college for a few returning GI's after World War II is now a comprehensive community college with 1,900 students taking a wide range of classes. Clinton Community College will celebrate its 70th anniversary Wednesday.
President Karen Vickers says Clinton Junior College opened in 1946 in a few rooms in Clinton High School, and became part of the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges in 1966.
"The focus has always been the local needs of our communities so we'll continue to work with our partners who've been beside us for many, many years. Working to make sure that people have access to additional education that can prepare them for the workforce.
She says the college now has three main groups of students - those starting on a regular, four-year degree, students working on technical degrees who plan to work right after graduation, and adult education including those trying to earn a g-e-d.
Vickers thinks one of the highlights of the anniversary celebration will be unveiling the renovated library.
"We took it down to the studs and enlarged the libary, we re-configured it. So it is all brand spanking new - it's beautiful."
Clinton Community College now has three facilities in Clinton, and one in Maquoketa.
The anniversary celebration will be held from 4 until 6 pm at the main campus.