July 07 '25•Benjamin Demers•50th Celebration• fall• community

Mission College Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence and Equity in Education

50th Mission sign
Mission College marks 50 years of empowering students and transforming lives in Silicon Valley, honoring a legacy of excellence, inclusion, and innovation since 1975.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

SANTA CLARA, CA -- Mission College proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, commemorating five decades of academic excellence, innovation, and community transformation. Since its founding in 1975, the college has served as a beacon of opportunity in Silicon Valley  empowering students, fostering growth, and shaping a future rooted in access, equity, and possibility.

To honor this milestone, the college is launching a yearlong series of signature events, exhibitions, and engagement opportunities that invite alumni, students, faculty, staff, and community members to celebrate, connect, and give back.

“For 50 years, Mission College has changed lives,” said President Dr. Seher Awan. “We’ve been a place of second chances, bold beginnings, and lifelong learning. This anniversary is a tribute to every student, educator, and supporter who helped build our legacy.”

A highlight of the celebration will take place on Saturday, September 6 at 5 p.m., when the college hosts Golden Nights, Brilliant Stars, an elegant outdoor gala under the stars. Guests will enjoy gourmet cuisine, live entertainment, and inspiring reflections from alumni, faculty, and community leaders, honoring 50 years of impact and achievement.

People running in Mission 5K
Celebrating half a century of progress, Mission College continues to lead with purpose—driving equity, innovation, and opportunity into the next 50 years.

 

October features two vibrant events that showcase Mission’s spirit of creativity and community. On October 11, the college presents Ghouls in Gold, a lively Halloween-themed 5K Dash & Bash for all ages. Costumes are encouraged as participants run, walk, or cheer their way through a festive, music-filled course designed to celebrate wellness and school pride.

Then, on October 28, the Golden Impressions Employee Art Exhibition opens at the Vargas Gallery on-campus. This dynamic showcase highlights the artistic talents of Mission’s faculty and staff, featuring works in painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media, a celebration of imagination, expression, and the creative energy that fuels the college.

The festivities culminate on November 18 with Golden Milestones, an immersive, interactive campus exhibition chronicling Mission College’s history, growth, and vision for the future. Through archival images, digital storytelling, and hands-on displays, visitors will journey through five transformative decades of educational innovation and community impact.

All events are open to the public, inviting the broader community to be part of this historic celebration.

As part of the 50th anniversary, the college also encourages community members and local organizations to invest in student success. Donations directly support scholarships, academic resources, and life-changing educational programs.

For a full schedule of 50th Anniversary events or to make a gift that empowers the next generation of Mission College students, visit missioncollege.edu/50.

Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected] 
About Mission College

Mission College is a leading institution of higher education dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers students to succeed.

With a commitment to student success, equity, and innovation, Mission College offers a diverse range of academic programs, exceptional faculty, and supportive services to foster a thriving educational community. 


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