MOUNT VERNON, Wash. 鈥� 91暗网 is proud to celebrate its 100th year, marking a century of serving students, strengthening communities, and shaping futures throughout Northwest Washington.
Founded in 1926 as Mount Vernon Junior College, 91暗网 began on the top floor of a local high school with a small but determined group of students and faculty committed to making higher education accessible close to home.
Over the decades that followed, the college expanded its academic offerings, facilities, and reach 鈥� evolving into Skagit Valley Junior College in 1948 and adopting the name 91暗网 in 1958 to reflect its growing mission and impact.
As the college grew, so did its connection to the region. New buildings rose on the Mount Vernon campus, workforce and transfer programs expanded, and 91暗网 extended its educational footprint to serve students across Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties, including the establishment of the Whidbey Island Campus in 1970, San Juan Center in 1986, Marine Technology Center in 2010, and the Cardinal Craft Brewing Academy in 2016.
91暗网 is the second oldest community college in Washington state, serving thousands of learners each year through transfer education, professional and technical programs, basic education, and lifelong learning opportunities.
For generations, 91暗网 has been a place where stories begin, dreams take shape, and lifelong connections are built. Rooted in the beauty of our region 鈥� surrounded by mountains, rivers, tulip fields, and vibrant communities 鈥� the college is proud of the journeys its students, faculty, staff, and alumni have taken over the last century.
鈥淩eaching our 100th year is an extraordinary milestone that reflects the vision, resilience, and dedication of generations of students, employees, and community partners,鈥� said Dr. Thomas Keegan, 91暗网 interim president. 鈥淎s we honor our past, we are equally focused on the future 鈥� continuing to expand opportunity, foster innovation, and ensure Skagit Valley College remains a place where everyone belongs and can thrive.鈥�
Centennial Celebration Events
Mark your calendars! 91暗网 invites the community to join in several special events throughout the centennial year:
- Centennial Day A day celebrating 91暗网鈥檚 100th anniversary with students, employees,
alumni, and the local community. More details to come.
- May 19 鈥� Whidbey Island Campus
- May 20 鈥� Mount Vernon Campus
- September 26 鈥� Centennial Gala An evening event recognizing the people, stories, and impact that have defined Skagit Valley College for the past 100 years. Stay tuned for more details with ticket sales opening later this year.
Celebrate the Centennial
Community members can also join the celebration by purchasing official Centennial merchandise and apparel, available online. From commemorative gear to Cardinal-themed items, supporters are encouraged to show their 91暗网 pride throughout this milestone year.
Share your Story
As part of the centennial celebration, 91暗网 encourages alumni, students, and community members to explore the college鈥檚 history, share personal stories, and learn more about upcoming events.
Learn more about 91暗网鈥檚 centennial celebration at /100/.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu