Hudson County Community College Foundation Honors Half a Century of Excellence at 28th Annual Gala
The Hudson County Community College (HCCC) Foundation recently hosted its 28th Annual Gala, a glittering event that doubled as a celebration of the college’s 50th anniversary. Held at a vibrant venue in Jersey City, the evening brought together alumni, faculty, community leaders, and supporters to reflect on five decades of transformative education while raising funds to empower future generations of students.
A Night of Celebration and Gratitude
The gala’s theme, “50 Years of Opportunity, Access, and Excellence,” set the tone for an evening that blended nostalgia with forward-thinking optimism. Attendees were greeted by a photo timeline showcasing pivotal moments in HCCC’s history—from its founding in 1974 as a small community college to its current status as a regional leader in career-focused education and workforce development.
Dr. Christopher Reber, HCCC’s President, opened the event with heartfelt remarks. “For half a century, this institution has been a beacon of hope and opportunity,” he said. “Tonight isn’t just about celebrating our past; it’s about ensuring that our doors remain open to every student who dreams of a better future.” His speech highlighted the college’s evolution, including its expansion into state-of-the-art campuses, nationally recognized programs, and partnerships with local industries.
Honoring Legacy and Vision
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Foundation’s Legacy Award to retired educator and longtime donor, Mrs. Gloria Martinez. A first-generation college graduate herself, Martinez has funded scholarships for over 200 HCCC students since 1998. “Education doesn’t just change lives—it transforms families and communities,” she said, receiving a standing ovation.
The gala also recognized the college’s role as an economic engine for Hudson County. A video montage featured testimonials from alumni who now lead local businesses, healthcare institutions, and tech startups. One graduate, Maria Sanchez, credited HCCC’s nursing program with launching her career: “This college gave me the skills to thrive, and now I’m proud to mentor HCCC students at my hospital.”
Fundraising Success for Student Success
True to its mission, the gala prioritized fundraising for student support initiatives. Attendees bid on auction items ranging from vacation packages to exclusive dining experiences, while corporate sponsors like PSEG and RWJBarnabas Health announced major contributions. By the end of the night, the Foundation had raised over $600,000—a record-breaking amount that will fund scholarships, emergency grants, and cutting-edge classroom technology.
Dr. Reber emphasized the impact of these donations: “Many of our students juggle jobs, families, and studies. Every dollar we raise tonight eases their burden and lets them focus on building their futures.”
A Look Back—and Ahead
As part of the 50th-anniversary festivities, the college unveiled plans for a new Innovation Hub, slated to open in 2025. This facility will house labs for emerging fields like renewable energy, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing, aligning with Hudson County’s growing tech sector.
Guests also enjoyed a surprise performance by the HCCC Jazz Ensemble, whose rendition of “What a Wonderful World” underscored the evening’s message of unity and progress.
Why This Milestone Matters
HCCC’s journey mirrors the broader story of community colleges in America. Founded to provide affordable, accessible education, it has adapted to meet shifting workforce needs while staying true to its core values. Today, the college serves over 12,000 students annually, with over 60% identifying as first-generation or low-income.
The Foundation’s role has been pivotal. Over the past 28 years, it has awarded $8 million in scholarships and supported programs like free textbooks, childcare assistance, and career counseling. “We don’t just educate students; we wrap them in support,” said Foundation Chairperson Linda Smith.
Community Partnerships: The Secret to Longevity
A recurring theme of the night was gratitude for local partnerships. From internships at Liberty Science Center to apprenticeships with Hoboken’s startup scene, HCCC’s ties to the community have fueled its longevity. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who attended the gala, praised the college’s “unwavering commitment to equity and innovation,” adding, “HCCC isn’t just a school—it’s the heartbeat of our county.”
The Road Ahead
As the gala concluded, attendees left with commemorative 50th-anniversary pins and a renewed sense of purpose. The evening wasn’t just a celebration; it was a reminder that HCCC’s legacy hinges on collective effort.
For those inspired to contribute, the Foundation announced a new “50 for 50” campaign, encouraging 50 local businesses to pledge $5,000 annually over the next five years. “Let’s ensure the next 50 years are even brighter,” urged Smith.
In closing, the HCCC story is one of resilience and reinvention. From humble beginnings to a half-century of impact, the college has proven that education is the ultimate equalizer—and with community support, its best days lie ahead.
To learn more about the Hudson County Community College Foundation or to donate, visit [HCCC Foundation’s website].
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