Once the Trust Territory School of Nursing and Dr. Torres Hospital, these buildings have now been repurposed into what is known across the region as the Northern Marianas College. No longer dedicated solely to nursing education, these structures now cater to the islanders’ hunger for higher learning in the Pacific. For nearly thirty years, the Northern Marianas College has stood as a beacon of pride and aspiration for islanders dreaming of advancing their education and practicing their professions close to home.
Back in August 23, 1976, the Trust Territory Government Resident Commissioner Erwin D. Canham declared the establishment of a community college. However, despite this proclamation, the college faced numerous challenges, including lack of funding, staff, and suitable facilities. Former NMC president Agnes McPhetres described it as little more than a “paper college” in its early days. Despite the lofty intentions, there was much work to be done to actualize the vision of a community college.
Eventually, it became clear that teachers needed to receive training and obtain associate degrees on the island. Program coordinator Katherine Porter, along with Roger Ludwick, worked tirelessly to secure grants and push for the creation of an institution capable of granting AA degrees. Despite opposition, particularly from those who viewed the proposed college as inferior, the islanders persisted in their quest for higher education.
Responding to this need, a bill was introduced in the Legislature in 1980, championed by Rep. Felicidad Ogumoro. With the support of Governor Camacho, the tide of dissent began to turn, and efforts to establish the college gained momentum. A task force, led by Jack Torres, was created to explore the feasibility of a community college, ultimately recommending its establishment.
Governor Camacho issued Executive Order 25 in 1981, formally establishing the Northern Marianas Community College (NMCC). The college, initially operating with a skeletal staff, found its first home in a building on the Marianas High School campus. Despite initial challenges, including sharing space with other government offices and a detention center, the college persevered.
In 1983, NMCC became a candidate for accreditation, and by 1985, it was granted accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. This milestone allowed NMCC to begin granting degrees, marking a significant achievement for the college and its students.
Subsequent legislation further solidified the college’s status, with the Higher Education Act of 1985 providing for the creation of a separate Board of Regents for NMCC. This paved the way for the college to manage its own fiscal and personnel affairs. Additionally, NMCC was designated a Land Grant institution by the US Congress in 1986, a designation typically reserved for state universities.
Over the years, NMCC continued to grow and expand its offerings. In 1988, it began offering four-year courses in elementary education, further enhancing its role in preparing future teachers for the community. The college’s commitment to quality education was recognized through successive reaffirmations of its accreditation and the expansion of its programs.
Looking ahead, NMCC remains dedicated to providing quality education to the people of the Northern Mariana Islands. Initiatives such as upgrading network infrastructure and expanding distance learning opportunities demonstrate the college’s commitment to staying at the forefront of education in the region.
Despite facing challenges and setbacks, NMCC has remained resilient, continuing to serve as a vital resource for the community. Like a bamboo swaying in the wind, the institution remains steadfast in its mission to provide accessible and high-quality education, undeterred by the obstacles it may face along the way.
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