Introduction
Hawaii Community College (HawCC) began its journey in 1941 as the Hawaii Vocational School. Its mission was to provide higher education and skilled workforce development to benefit the local community. In 1958, the school was renamed the Hawaii Technical School to reflect its increased focus on technical and practical training.
The school gained its current name, Hawaii Community College, in 1970 when it joined with the University of Hawaii. Since then, it has continued to expand by adding degree programs and continuing education programs to service the island.
HawCC has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Specific programs within the College, such as the Culinary Arts and Intensive English programs, have also received additional accreditation.
Today, the college defines itself with the concept