SUNY Corning Community College

Corning Community College has a history rooted in its commitment to education and community service. Established in 1957, CCC emerged from a vision to meet the growing educational needs of the Southern Tier. The college began its journey at the former Corning Free Academy, where eager students gathered to pursue their educational goals. By 1960, enrollment had increased to 350 full-time and 260 part-time students, prompting the search for a permanent campus.

In October 1960, a generous gift of land from Arthur A. Houghton, Jr., combined with a $2.25 million donation from the Corning Glass Works Foundation, allowed construction to begin on a new campus at Spencer Hill. The main campus opened in 1963, featuring state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and student services that fostered a vibrant learning environment. The campus was formally dedicated in May 1964, and it received its first Middle States accreditation in June of that year.

Over the years, SUNY CCC has expanded its offerings, developing over 50 degree and certificate programs in fields ranging from liberal arts and sciences to engineering and health sciences. The college recognizes the importance of both academic and vocational training, preparing students for transitions to four-year institutions or direct entry into the workforce. A strong emphasis on STEM education has helped cultivate a generation of innovators and skilled professionals.

In August 2007, SUNY CCC opened the Academic and Workforce Development Center in Elmira to address the need for skilled employees, attract new jobs to the region, and assist the success of entrepreneurs and established businesses. The Center now houses various credit and non-credit courses, including a welding facility, and serves as a hub for community partners.

Beyond academics, SUNY CCC prioritizes community engagement and collaboration. Through partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and schools, the college actively contributes to economic development and community well-being. Its commitment to service is evident in numerous cultural events, workshops, and programs hosted on campus, encouraging participation from both students and the surrounding community.

As the landscape of education evolves, CCC has adapted to meet the changing needs of students. The college has expanded its online and hybrid course offerings, ensuring that non-traditional and working students have access to quality education. This adaptability has positioned SUNY CCC as a leader in providing educational opportunities that cater to a diverse range of needs.

Recently, SUNY CCC achieved the highest three-year graduation rate among the 29 two-year community colleges in the SUNY system, according to Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System data. This achievement reflects the college's mission to empower students. “Not only are our students graduating at an outstanding rate, but they are also achieving life-changing results beyond their time at Spencer Hill,” said Dr. William Mullaney, President of SUNY CCC.

Looking to the future, SUNY Corning Community College remains dedicated to fostering quality education and enhancing the quality of life in the community. Its story is one of resilience, adaptation, and a steadfast commitment to serving students and the community, ensuring that generations to come can benefit from the opportunities provided.

Who We Are

SUNY Corning Community College is the smart choice in upstate New York, and its graduates boast a door-opening degree without assuming overwhelming debt. SUNY CCC is known as an affordable option for students who want academic rigor, a balance between challenge and support, and a proactive, forward-thinking community. The College leverages the power of a SUNY education and a student-oriented focus to prepare students to be leaders in their chosen professions and communities. SUNY CCC offers an extensive, yet affordable, range of educational, cultural, and social opportunities to a diverse population of full- and part-time learners in a caring and inclusive environment. SUNY Corning Community College offers 40 academic programs (4 online), more than 800 courses, and custom business training. Learning transforms lives.