Former CC president: I am so proud of all you have accomplished

Dear students, staff, faculty, administrators, Centralia College alumni and communities served:

Hearty congratulations to all as we celebrate Centralia College’s 100th anniversary.

From the beginning on Sept. 14, 1925, when Charles L. Littel founded and opened the doors of Centralia Junior College, many educators, supporters and community businesses have carried forward Littel’s vision to build and maintain an exceptional higher education institution.

The college proudly claims to be the oldest community college in continuous operation in Washington state thanks to the dedication of people like faculty member Katharine Kemp and Dean Margaret Corbet who “kept the doors open” through the Great Depression and World War II.

This institution has experienced a remarkable history.

Since the early days, the campus has undergone significant growth by creating, updating and following a master plan; by keeping abreast of changes in educational needs; by remaining flexible and responding in meaningful ways to student and job market trends; and by continuing to inspire and help students become successful during their Centralia College experiences.

Centralia College may have begun as a “junior” college, but it has developed into a significant institution offering an array of educational opportunities from certificates and diplomas to two-year and four-year degrees in a variety of subjects.

It was a privilege for me to serve as president of Centralia College from 1986 to 2002. In the 23 years since my retirement, my successors have provided excellent governance while faculty, staff, the boards of trustees, donors and community leaders all have worked together to maintain a high standard of conduct and a safe, supportive learning environment for students.

All of this despite the challenges of funding, budget cuts, COVID, etc.

Know that my wife, Jenny, and I remain ardent fans of Centralia College. I am so proud of all you have accomplished. As I often have been known to say, “Go forward with courage and confidence” Trailblazers!

Full speed ahead.

•••

Dr. Henry P. Kirk is president emeritus of Centralia College.