Gulf Coast State College history

To serve the higher education needs of African-Americans in the community, Rosenwald Junior College opened in 1958 on the campus of Rosenwald High School, and Calvin Washington was named president.

Construction of new buildings on the campus began in 1959, with the actual move to the new campus completed the next year.

In May 1962, 50 years after its organization, the Agricultural High School division was discontinued, and local high schools provided for the youth of the community.

In 1965, the Seabee Base Manpower Training Center (founded the previous year) became a branch of the new Jefferson Davis Campus.

Amelia G. Tapper Center for the Arts (1967; renovated and renamed for Mrs.

After its removal to the Industrial Seaway in 1968 this branch took the name Harrison County Occupational Training Center.

In 1970, the College changed its name again back to Gulf Coast Community College as its mission expanded to include service to the community.

In 1973, Keesler Center opened at Keesler Air Force Base as a branch of Jefferson Davis Campus.

In spring 1991, the College relocated the Harrison County Occupational Training Center to Intraplex 10 with the opening of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Applied Technology and Development Center.

In 1996, a campus “without walls” concept was introduced resulting in a fourth campus called Community Campus.

In August 2000, the Naval Construction Battalion Center at the Seabee Base in Gulfport was established as part of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

Classes began in January 2001, providing even more services to meet the diverse needs of Gulf Coast residents, both military and civilian.

Wellness Complex (2003; includes new gym named Billy Harrison Field House)