San Jacinto College book celebrates 50 years of history

‘Reaching for Tomorrow’ chronicles San Jacinto College’s first 50 years.

A richly illustrated book showcasing 50 years of San Jacinto Community College history has been published.

Selling for $35.95 at www.sanjac50.com and at campus bookstores at the school's locations in Pasadena and Southeast and Northeast Houston, the hardcover volume features 160 pages of photos and stories.

Titled "Reaching for Tomorrow: The San Jacinto College Story 1961-2011," the book was authored by San Jacinto history and geography professor Michael Modica, with contributions from Amanda Booren, Teri Fowlé, Jeannie Peng-Armao, Rob Vanya, Andrea Vasquez and Dr. Laurel Williamson.

"In addition to a condensed history of the college, the book includes many photos of San Jacinto College people and events from 1961 to the present," Modica said.

More than 250 photos depict the school's academic and athletic achievements through the years. From the school's modest beginnings in a downtown Pasadena storefront to its first permanent campus on Spencer Highway, from the 1975 opening of the North Campus to the 1979 opening of the South Campus, the book traces five decades of growth and expansion.

"From the 876 students enrolled in September of 1961 when we first opened our doors, to the bustling enrollment of more than 30,000 students that we have today, student success and access to higher education have always been the core of what we do," said SJC Chancellor Brenda Hellyer.

"San Jacinto College has a proud history of academic excellence, student accomplishments, outstanding faculty, and committed staff and administrators that have made us a leader in higher education for more than 50 years," Hellyer continued. "We sincerely appreciate the current and former students and employees, and our community, who are a part of our rich history and shared their knowledge to help make this book possible."