Dear HCC Family,

It is indeed an honor and a privilege to be a part of this historic event as we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Houston Community College’s existence. As the seventh Chancellor to lead this institution, and having less than five years of tenure here, I am so proud to have my hand and footprint on what we have become and on what we will become over the next several years. More importantly, however, I salute and honor those of you who have made the most significant contributions to the greatness of Houston Community College.

Founding Trustees, past Trustees and Trustees who serve on our Board today, we acknowledge the hard work and commitment that you made 40 years ago and are making today. You have guided HCC from a vocational industrial college to the highly technologically-advanced, workforce and academic institution that is so highly recognized throughout our nation and abroad.

As elected officials, you have carried the torch all the way from our State Capitol to the halls of the White House. Your efforts have made our voices heard in order to make available those resources that have allowed us to build facilities, equip classrooms and hire the finest in teachers, staff and administrators. It is through your work that student successes have been made possible.

To those who have served on the Foundation Board, we are grateful for the contributions you have made to enhance educational opportunities for thousands of students. The students you have helped may not have been able to fulfill their dreams had it not been for your hard work in raising scholarship funds. Through the benefaction of the Foundation, deserving students have received additional resources with which they could begin, continue or complete their education. Again, thank you and congratulations for what you have done for HCC.

Finally, taxpayers, constituents and community leaders, thank you for being a champion for HCC over the past 40 years. Your support through the various taxations, bond and annexation initiatives sought by our leaders have opened the doors of opportunities for students and families that may have led to happier and more productive lives than ever imagined. Our city, state and nation are a better place because HCC is the most “relevant” community college, “essential” to our community’s success.

Today is our day, a day of remembrance, thank you for being here. Sincerely,

Mary S. Spangler, Ed.D.
Chancellor, HCC