Celebrating 75 Years
Orange Coast Junior College district was established in 1947, with classes beginning in 1948. For more than 75 years, OCC has been a leader in higher education in Costa Mesa and its surrounding communities.
As one of the nation’s top transfer schools, and with a robust offering of career and technical education programs, OCC prides itself on giving students the tools they need to succeed in today’s world. Throughout 2023, OCC will be sharing “Coast Stories” about the many ways that our College has impacted the lives of those in our community and around the world. To participate in the festivities, submit your story below.
Throughout this year, as we prepare to celebrate our 75th graduating class, OCC also will host several events honoring the legacy of excellence that has distinguished our College as one of the nation’s best. We encourage you to check back here to stay informed about upcoming events, or email orangecoastcollege@occ.cccd.edu to be added to our email list.
Much has changed at Coast over the past seven decades, but one thing remains steadfastly the same: our commitment to providing a high-quality education to all those who seek it.
Our Roots in Serving the Community

OCC Magazine
2020
LEARN MORE

Annual Report
2018-2019
VIEW THE REPORT

Tumbleweeds to Roses
READ OUR HISTORY

Paul Frank, OCC Alum, holding Julius the Monkey at OCC's The Box event
The classes that transformed your journey. The faculty and staff who impacted your life. The students who became life-long friends.
Everybody has a story and we want to hear yours. Share with us how Orange Coast College shaped your life as we commemorate our 75 years of excellence. We want everyone to know how great our alumni are because your journey at OCC is our legacy.
Featured Alumni Stories

After graduation I transferred to UCLA, where I earned a bachelors degree in political science and public affairs. I’ve been involved in [OCC’s] Alumni and Friends since 2008. I love the work that the Foundation does and being a part of that is a really big deal for me.
Shana Jenkins / Business Owner / Newport Beach

I'm forever grateful to Orange Coast College for giving me a chance to better my life.
Jamaal Lee / Senior, Vanguard University Forward, VU Men’s Basketball

Orange Coast College was a great fit for me. The program is affordable and offers an accredited degree in culinary arts. It really helped to prepare me for my dream restaurant position!
Gabriel Caliendo / Vice President, Research & Development / Lazy Dog Restaurant