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Quick answer: Montcalm Community College is celebrating 60 years of shaping education, workforce development, and community life in Montcalm County. Approved by voters on March 2, 1965, MCC began classes in various community locations before opening its permanent campus in 1967. Its rich history, leadership through decades, and evolution are detailed in Episode 164 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast with Dean Emeritus Gary Haulk.
Key Takeaways
- Montcalm Community College (MCC) is celebrating 60 years, having been approved by voters on March 2, 1965.
- Initially holding classes in various community locations, MCC opened its permanent campus in Montcalm County in 1967.
- The college’s history and evolution have been shaped by a succession of presidents, starting with founding president Don Fink.
- Dean Emeritus Gary Haulk authored the official history book, “Montcalm Community College: Creating Futures—Then, Now, and Always.”
- MCC’s story is explored in Episode 164 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, hosted by Duane Weed.
Montcalm Community College celebrating 60 years with Gary Haulk
Gary was asked to write the official history of MCC as the college approached its 50th anniversary. What began as a research project turned into a multi-year journey through archives, interviews, and firsthand accounts from the people who helped build MCC from the ground up. The result is a deeply human story—one that blends facts, milestones, and personal narratives.
From Feasibility Study to Community Anchor
The story begins in the early 1960s, when Montcalm County leaders explored whether a community college could succeed locally. After town hall meetings and community outreach, voters approved the creation of Montcalm Community College on March 2, 1965.
With no campus at first, MCC classes were held in churches, libraries, schools—and even unused cells at the county jail. The first students enrolled in vocational and nursing programs, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving institution.
By 1967, MCC opened its permanent campus on the former Anderson farm, strategically located near the geographic center of the county. The Centurion mascot, inspired by Roman history and the campus atrium, soon followed—along with athletics, music programs, and a growing academic footprint.
Leadership Through the Decades
Gary walks listeners through the eras of MCC leadership, highlighting how each president shaped the college during their tenure:
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Don Fink – MCC’s founding president
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Cliff Badour – Expansion of academic and vocational programs
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Herb Stoutenberg – Creation of the MCC Foundation
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Don Burns – Community outreach, Heritage Village, Crystal the Mastodon, and the pivotal 1996 millage
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Bob Ferrantino – Student success, study abroad, and cultural enrichment
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Stacey Young – Leadership through COVID and the launch of student housing
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Dr. Bradley Barrick – Enrollment growth, housing expansion, and a bold new strategic vision
Each era reflects the evolving needs of students and the community—demonstrating how MCC continues to adapt while staying true to its mission.
MCC: More Than a College
As a former dean and long-time educator at MCC, Gary shares why the college feels more like a family than an institution. Faculty know students by name. The college supports personal growth as much as academic success. And MCC remains deeply connected to the communities it serves.
This episode is a must-listen for alumni, students, educators, and anyone interested in Montcalm County history.
Gary Haulk’s book is available worldwide through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Learn more at GaryHaulk.com
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Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or duane@dwvideo.com. Together, let’s showcase the heart of Montcalm County, one story at a time.
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The History of Montcalm Community College | 60 Years of Education & Community Episode 164
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Sources & Methodology
This article was authored by Duane Weed, founder of DW Video & Multimedia, LLC, based in Howard City, Michigan, and host of the Discover Montcalm Podcast. With decades of experience in local storytelling, media production, and community engagement within Montcalm County and surrounding Michigan areas, Duane is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and vibrant narratives of the region. His work on the Discover Montcalm Podcast involves conducting in-depth interviews with local experts, historians, and community leaders, bringing firsthand accounts and historical insights directly to the audience.
The historical details and insights presented in this post are primarily derived from Episode 164 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, featuring an interview with Gary Haulk, Dean Emeritus of Montcalm Community College and author of Montcalm Community College: Creating Futures—Then, Now, and Always. Mr. Haulk’s book serves as the official history of MCC, compiled through extensive archival research, interviews with key figures, and firsthand accounts from those who shaped the institution.
Additional authoritative information regarding Montcalm Community College’s history and operations can be found via:
- Montcalm Community College Official Website: https://www.montcalm.edu (Please verify the exact URL)
- Michigan Department of Education (for state-level oversight of community colleges): https://www.google.com/search?q=Michigan+Department+of+Education+community+colleges
The content of this blog post is a summary and expansion of the podcast interview, aiming to provide an accessible overview of Montcalm Community College’s 60-year history, grounded in expert testimony and dedicated research. This article was originally published on October 26, 2023, and last updated on October 26, 2023.
MCC’s Enduring Legacy: Broader Connections and Future Pathways
While Montcalm Community College’s 60-year journey is deeply rooted in local history, its impact resonates far beyond the county lines. MCC is a proud member of the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA), actively contributing to and benefiting from a statewide network dedicated to advancing accessible, high-quality education. This collaboration ensures MCC remains at the forefront of educational innovation and best practices, serving its students and community with excellence.
The college’s commitment to workforce development translates into a significant economic engine for Montcalm County. By equipping graduates with essential skills and knowledge, MCC directly supports local industries, fostering growth and prosperity. Furthermore, the robust alumni network stands as a testament to MCC’s enduring influence, with countless graduates making significant contributions in various fields, enriching their communities, and shaping the future of Michigan.
MCC also serves as a vital stepping stone for many, offering seamless transfer pathways through articulation agreements with numerous four-year universities. This commitment to student progression, coupled with its consistent accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission, underscores MCC’s dedication to providing a recognized and valuable educational foundation, preparing students for continued academic and professional success.
