Ocean-County-College-Strategic-Plan-2025 - Flipbook - Page 6
BUILDING ON OUR
L E G A C Y
THEN
Founded in 1964 as New Jersey’s first county
college, Ocean County College was established
with a clear vision: to provide OCC access to
affordable, high-quality education for residents
of Ocean County. What began with 979 students
in its first semester quickly evolved into a trusted
academic institution serving a growing population of traditional students, working adults, and
lifelong learners. As public higher education
expanded throughout the state, OCC emerged
as a leader in open admissions, community
engagement, and innovation — building strong
roots in Toms River and laying the foundation
for an enduring impact on the region.
Even in its earliest decades, OCC embodied the
spirit of building opportunity — opening doors
for students who might not otherwise have
had access to college. By focusing on associate degrees and career pathways, the college
empowered learners to transfer to four-year
institutions or enter the workforce with confidence. At the same time, OCC helped strengthen
the local community by preparing skilled graduates and acting as a cultural and educational
anchor for the region. That commitment to
equity, responsiveness, and service remains
woven into the college’s identity.
