Colorado Mountain College: A History of Educational Expansion
The establishment of Colorado Mountain College (CMC) marked a pivotal shift in accessibility for higher education across the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains. Founded through a grassroots effort by local voters, the institution was designed to bring academic opportunities directly to the mountain communities it serves.
The Founding and Early Years
On November 2, 1965, voters across five Colorado counties approved the creation of a college district. This new district encompassed Eagle, Garfield, Routt, Lake, Summit, and Pitkin counties. The proposal for a junior college—a two-year institution offering associate degrees and certificates—was unanimously approved by the State Board of Education.
The institution was named "Colorado Mountain College," a title suggested by Harold Koonce, a member of the governing committee.
First Campuses and Leadership
The college began its physical operations with the construction of residential campuses in Leadville and Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs. These facilities welcomed their first students in the fall of 1967 under the leadership of the institution's first president, Dr. Joe Davenport. Tragically, shortly after the opening of these campuses, Dr. Davenport passed away in a single-engine plane crash while attempting to land in Glenwood Springs.
Growth and Accreditation
Following its initial launch, CMC entered a period of rapid geographic expansion to reach more remote populations. In 1972, the college began offering courses in Summit County, which paved the way for further expansions into Rifle, Salida, and Buena Vista.
A major milestone in the college's academic journey occurred in 1974, when it received full accreditation from the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges, validating the quality and rigor of its educational programs.
Modern Developments and Diversity
In the 21st century, CMC continued to evolve its facilities and specialized offerings. In 2012, the college opened the Isaacson School for Communication, Arts, & Media at the Spring Valley campus, and established a new academic center at CMC Steamboat Springs.
The college's footprint expanded again in November 2019. Following a dual vote by the Salida and Poncha Springs communities and the existing CMC district, these areas officially joined the special taxing district, creating the newest CMC location.
Recognizing its evolving student demographics, the federal government designated Colorado Mountain College as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in 2021. This designation is awarded to institutions where Latino students make up 25% or more of the total enrollment.
Key Facts
- Founded: November 2, 1965.
- Original Counties: Eagle, Garfield, Routt, Lake, Summit, and Pitkin.
- First President: Dr. Joe Davenport.
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges in 1974.
- HSI Status: Designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution in 2021.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1965 | Voters approve the formation of the college district. |
| 1967 | First classes begin at Leadville and Spring Valley campuses. |
| 1972 | Expansion begins in Summit County, Rifle, Salida, and Buena Vista. |
| 1974 | Full accreditation received. |
| 2012 | Opening of the Isaacson School and Steamboat Springs academic center. |
| 2019 | Salida and Poncha Springs join the CMC taxing district. |
| 2021 | Designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who suggested the name Colorado Mountain College?
The name was suggested by Harold Koonce, a member of the governing committee, and was adopted immediately following the State Board of Education's approval.
Which campuses were the first to be built?
The first residential campuses were constructed in Leadville and Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs.
When did CMC receive its full accreditation?
The college received full accreditation from the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges in 1974.
What is the Isaacson School?
Opened in 2012 at the Spring Valley campus, the Isaacson School is dedicated to Communication, Arts, & Media.
Why was CMC designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution?
The federal government granted this designation in 2021 because the college reached an enrollment of 25% or more Latino students.