Coffeyville Community College: A Legacy of Education and Opportunity

Coffeyville Community College (CCC), a public two-year institution located in Coffeyville, Kansas, has a rich history rooted in providing accessible and equitable education to its community. From its humble beginnings in 1923 to its current status as a comprehensive college with multiple campuses, CCC has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of its students and the region.

A Foundation Built on Community Support

The story of Coffeyville Community College begins with a vision and the support of the local community. In 1921, the Kansas Legislature passed enabling legislation that paved the way for the creation of junior colleges. Following this, on February 12, 1923, the Board of Education took a decisive step by voting to present a proposal to the voters to establish a junior college in Coffeyville. The community overwhelmingly embraced the idea, and on April 3, the proposal passed in every precinct with a vote of 2,322 to 656.

In September 1923, Coffeyville Junior College opened its doors, becoming the seventh junior college in Kansas. Initially, the college occupied three rooms of the Washington High School at 10th and Willow. Twenty-five students enrolled, guided by six instructors, with tuition offered free of charge. The library, a vital resource for students, housed 3,500 volumes, and the curriculum encompassed 26 courses across seven departments.

Early Growth and Recognition

The college experienced steady growth in its early years. By the spring of 1931, the student body had grown to 160, and the college achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Kansas junior college to have its own building. This new facility boasted 11 lecture rooms, a library, and an auditorium, providing a dedicated space for learning and community events.

Coffeyville gained national recognition in 1938 and 1939 by winning its first national championship in debate. Karl Wilson, who for more than forty years had contributed to the success of the College, was debate coach. The college's commitment to excellence extended beyond academics. Dr. Clifford Long, former Commissioner of the Kansas Jayhawk Junior College Conference and retired Director of Extension Services at Pittsburg State University, led the Ravens to their first athletic National Championship by winning the NJCAA Championship Bowl Game in 1956. With National Championships in track and cross country in 1960 and basketball in 1962, C.C.J.C. became known as “The Home of Champions.” In 1983, the Ravens won their second National Championship in football, finishing with an 11-1 record.

Read also: Employment in Coffeyville, KS

Expansion and Modernization

The college continued to expand its facilities to accommodate its growing student population. The present classroom building opened in 1958, serving more than 500 students. A significant change occurred in 1965 when Coffeyville and Caney voters decided to join the Kansas system of junior colleges as a southern Montgomery County District. As a result, the institution became Coffeyville Community Junior College, with an enrollment of 764 students.

Under the leadership of Dr. Russell Graham, who became president in 1967, the college embarked on a mission to expand the campus and achieve North Central Accreditation. In October of that year, voters approved a $1,800,000 bond issue for the construction of a downtown college complex. This project was completed in 1969 and included a College Union, Learning Resource Center, Occupational Building, and Fine Arts Auditorium.

Accreditation and Continued Development

Coffeyville Community Junior College received a ten-year North Central Accreditation on March 22, 1972, a testament to its commitment to quality education. In July 1980, the Kansas Legislature officially dropped the “Junior” from the names of community colleges in Kansas, shortening the school’s name to Coffeyville Community College.

Dr. Dan Kinney became the third president of the College in 1985. Under his direction, the dorms were increased in size to house 305 students, Nellis Hall gymnasium was built, and the Student Union was increased in size.Dr. Ronald Thomas became the fourth president of the College in February 1995. Dr. Jim Stringer served as interim president at various times, providing stability and leadership during transitions. Dr. Howard “Sam” Bass became the fifth president of the College in June of 2000. In March of 2001, Dr. Bass announced the joining of Coffeyville Community College and the Southeast Kansas Area Technical School. Dr. Don A. Linda Moley was named Interim President in September 2010 and was named President in July 2011. The College's accreditation was reaffirmed for another ten years by the Higher Learning Commission in 2015. CCC received its first million dollar donation from Dr. Terry Powell in 2015 (graduate of class of '62). Dr. Marlon Thornburg was named Coffeyville Community College's eighth president in July of 2020.

Academics: A Diverse Range of Programs

Coffeyville Community College offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of its students. The college provides access to five associate degrees, 15 career and technical programs, and five certificate programs. These programs cover a wide spectrum of disciplines, preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions or for direct entry into the workforce.

Read also: About Grossmont Community College

The college consists of three campuses: the Main Campus in downtown Coffeyville, the Coffeyville Technical Campus, and the Columbus Technical Campus. The Coffeyville Technical Campus is located directly west of Field Kindley High School. This multi-campus structure allows CCC to offer specialized programs and resources in different areas of expertise.

Full-time faculty teach 91% of the total credit hours offered by the College, ensuring that students receive instruction from experienced and dedicated educators. The college also recognizes the importance of flexibility and accessibility, offering a distance learning program with the majority of those classes offered online.

Campus Life: A Supportive and Engaging Environment

Coffeyville Community College provides a supportive and engaging campus environment that fosters student success. With a student enrollment of around 3,500, the college offers a close-knit community where students can connect with their peers and instructors. The school reported an out-of-state student body portion of 29% for that year. There was a total of 1,428 students working towards bachelor's degrees, including 42 international students.

The college is committed to focusing on the diversity of its student population and improving students' sense of inclusion and belonging. In a diverse learning space, you will be exposed to people from different backgrounds, which promotes the feeling of inclusion and acceptance. In 2023, this school had 2 Asian students and 227 Afro-American students. 85 undergraduates identified as Hispanic/Latino, and 87 identified with more than one race.

Students interested in music can join the Coffeyville Community College band or chorus. The dormitory entrances are electronically operated. There is a 24-hour security patrol. There is a medical clinic with personal/psychological counseling.

The college also provides a range of student support services to help students succeed academically. These include tutoring, study skills workshops, and career counseling. Students can also take advantage of the college's library, computer labs, and campus housing facilities. Current on-campus housing costs $7,650.00 per year and includes a room and meal plan. There are 560 student beds available.

Athletics: A Tradition of Champions

One of the main draws of Coffeyville Community College is its strong athletic program. The college is part of the National Junior College Athletic Association and competes in a range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and softball. The athletic teams, known as the Red Ravens, have a long history of success and have won numerous championships over the years.

The college offers numerous activity and athletic scholarships, providing opportunities for talented athletes to pursue their academic and athletic goals.

Accreditation and Commitment to Equity

Coffeyville Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a testament to its commitment to quality and continuous improvement. The school has a 10-year accreditation which will be up for renewal in the 2024-2025 school year.

Coffeyville Community College is committed to a policy of educational equity. Accordingly, the College has an open admissions policy; grants financial aid and scholarships; provides access to five associate degrees, 15 career and technical programs, and five certificate programs; and, all educational program activities and employment practices without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, ancestry or disabilities. CCC is an Equal Opportunity Institution. The college has an acceptance rate of 95%.

Financial Information

Financial planning for school is one of the most important things to consider before you apply. Tuition fees for area residents were $2,520, as reported by public county or municipal institutions. For out-of-state students, tuition fees amounted to $3,240. If you are an international student at Coffeyville Community College, you should know that the 2023 tuition amounted to $4,920.

Another important expense to consider is the approximate price of books and supplies for a college or university. In 2023, the student-to-faculty ratio at Coffeyville Community College was 20:1. The faculty of this school consists of 162 members, according to the most recent data reported.

tags: #coffeyville #community #college #history #academics #campus