60th Anniversary of the Virginia Community College System

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

60th Anniversary of the Virginia Community College System

WHEREAS, the Virginia Community College System was established in 1966 by the Virginia General Assembly with the vision of providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality higher education opportunities to all Virginians; and

WHEREAS, for 60 years, Virginia's community colleges have served as gateways to opportunity, empowering students of all backgrounds to pursue higher education, develop workforce skills, achieve career advancement, and contribute to the prosperity of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Community College System has grown into one of the nation's premier community college systems, serving hundreds of thousands of students through 23 community colleges, workforce centers, and educational programs located throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Virginia's community colleges play a vital role in preparing a skilled workforce by partnering with employers, industries, and local communities to provide training and credentials that meet the evolving needs of Virginia's economy; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth's community colleges have expanded educational access for generations of Virginians, including first-generation college students, adult learners, military service members and veterans, and individuals seeking new opportunities through workforce development and career training; and

WHEREAS, through innovative programs, transfer pathways, apprenticeship opportunities, and workforce initiatives, Virginia's community colleges help students achieve their educational goals while strengthening businesses, industries, and communities throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, the dedicated faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and supporters of Virginia's community colleges have helped transform countless lives by fostering academic achievement, professional success, civic engagement, and economic mobility; and

WHEREAS, the 60th anniversary of the Virginia Community College System provides an opportunity to celebrate its enduring legacy of service, recognize its impact on the lives of millions of Virginians, and reaffirm its commitment to educational excellence and workforce innovation for future generations; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia proudly recognizes the significant contributions of the Virginia Community College System and honors six decades of expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and building a brighter future for all Virginians;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize November 12, 2026, as the 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.