March 29 people from all over Ventura County came out to celebrate with Ventura College on their 80th Anniversary over treats and entertainment.VC Business major Rosie Perez said the celebration made her feel proud to be apart of the college.

“It was a warm feeling to attend the 80 year anniversary celebration,” said Perez. “[Especially] when they were talking about the history of the college.”

A large crowd joined Ventura College for its Open-House held on March 29 at 12 p.m. in the quad to celebrate its 80 years of service to students. Distinguished speakers kicked off the event immediately followed by a cake cutting ceremony supplying free cake to all the guests. Plus, numerous exhibits with give-a-ways were spread throughout the campus to show off programs offered at VC.

Ventura College began as a junior college department added to Ventura Union High School in 1925 educating 35 students the first year.

In 1955 the college was moved to its current location on Telegraph Road where it became the first community college of the Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD), now educating approximately 12,000 students.

In 2002 a $356 million general obligation bond was passed by Ventura County voters to renovate the colleges in the district including Oxnard and Moorpark. From this bond erected the new VC Library and Learning Resources Center (LRC) opened in 2005 and the new Student Services Center due to open next fall.

“This is a milestone truly worthy of a celebration,” said VC President Dr. Robin Calote. “This event [was] the culmination of a year of activities commemorating the college’s eight decades.”

Calote opened the hour-long ceremony, followed by the VCCCD Chancellor Dr. James Meznek, and other community representatives. Then the audience enjoyed cake, courtesy of the Royal Bakery in Ventura, displaying historic pictures of the college.

For more information contact the Public Information Office 654-6462.