History of Laredo College

Laredo College, located in Laredo, Texas, has a rich history that spans over a century. It was originally established as Laredo Junior College on September 28, 1946, by voters in the Laredo Independent School District and opened its doors to students in 1947.

In its early years, Laredo Junior College operated from temporary facilities, including local high schools. Despite these challenges, the college remained committed to providing accessible education to the growing community.

As Laredo expanded, so did the college. In the 1960s, it relocated to its current site on West End Washington Street, where it began to enhance its campus and academic programs. By the 1970s, it had transformed into Laredo Community College, reflecting its increased scope and community impact.

In August 1993, the college officially became Laredo Community College. In 2004, a second location, Laredo Community College South, was added. The institution was renamed Laredo College in 2018, as approved by the Board of Trustees.

Laredo College has consistently focused on meeting the diverse needs of its students, adapting its curriculum to align with workforce demands and offering a variety of associate degrees and certificate programs in fields such as nursing, business, and the arts.

In addition to academics, Laredo College has served as a cultural hub, hosting theater productions, art exhibitions, and community events that enrich the cultural landscape of Laredo and foster creativity and dialogue among residents.

In recent years, the college has embraced technology and innovative teaching methods, offering online courses, hybrid learning options, and modern facilities to meet the evolving needs of its students.

Today, Laredo College stands as a testament to the transformative power of education. With a legacy of perseverance, inclusivity, and excellence, it continues to be a beacon of opportunity for students in Laredo and beyond. The college serves a three-county area that includes Webb, Jim Hogg, and Zapata.