Vision

The Contra Costa Community College District – providing an empowering and inspiring environment in which to work, learn, and grow – is a premier educational organization where individuals of diverse backgrounds and cultures share a passion for learning and where there is energy, enthusiasm, and pride among students, faculty, and staff.

Mission

The mission of the Contra Costa Community College District is to attract and transform students and communities by providing accessible, innovative and outstanding higher education learning opportunities and support services.

This Mission reflects the District’s commitment to a culture of student learning and success that prepares students to lead thriving and productive lives. The following five areas of educational focus advance the Mission.

• General and Transfer Education: Providing a challenging education in the liberal arts and sciences which prepares students for life and transfer to four-year institutions

• Economic and Workforce Development: Supplying relevant and timely career and technical education to develop skills for the global workplace and to contribute to the region’s economic vitality

• Basic Skills: Preparing students for success in life and academic programs by improving their skills in math, reading and writing

• English as a Second Language (ESL) Education: Implementing quality language programs for students speaking English as a second language

• Lifelong Learning: Offering a variety of courses and experiences that support learning throughout a lifetime

History

The Contra Costa Community College District (CCCCD) was founded by a public vote in December 1948 and first opened its doors in 1949. It is one of the largest multi-college community college districts in California. CCCCD serves a population of 1,019,640 people, and its boundaries encompass all but 48 of the 734-square-mile land area of Contra Costa County. The District Office is located in historic downtown Martinez.

The Contra Costa Community College District is governed by an elected five-member Governing Board who serve four-year terms. One student member, selected by student government, serves a one-year term on a rotational basis among the Colleges. The Chancellor, appointed by the Governing Board, carries out the policies of the District.

In 2009, the District celebrated its 60th anniversary with a variety of events and activities. A set of history boards were created and traveled throughout the county, revealing some historic events and past leaders of the District. A closing event was held at the Craneway Pavilion, located in Richmond and near Shipyard #3 where the first District classes were held in 1949, and a history book titled “Sharing Memories Contra Costa Community College District 1948-2008” was published to share our rich legacy with the community. To view the history boards, photos of the 60th anniversary closing event or view the book, click here.

For 60 years, our institutions have been a vital part of Contra Costa County. Young and old alike are encouraged to take advantage of an incomparable array of educational choices, including studies leading to an associate degree, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, short-term training to update professional skills, and specialized vocational and technical training programs - many in partnership with local businesses and industry - to help build a strong workforce in Contra Costa County.