celebrating 30 years
Pennsylvania Highlands, initially known as Cambria County Area Community College, held its inaugural classes on September 5th, 1994. Three decades later, the College has become an educational cornerstone for over 60,000 community members throughout the region, with its influence continually expanding.
Penn Highlands will be commemorating its 30th Anniversary during the 2024-2025 academic year, marked by various events and special celebrations.
This milestone provides an occasion to acknowledge the accomplishments of our students, staff, faculty, patrons, and alumni. Their collective efforts have enhanced our region, making it an excellent place to reside and work.
Penn Highlands remains steadfast in its mission – offering the region cost-effective avenues to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for work, everyday life, and the pursuit of lifelong learning.
The first classes were held on September 5, 1994. The College was known as Cambria County Area Community College at the time.Â
Dr. John O. Hunter was named the College's first president. He served from 1994 to 1999.Â
Dr. Kathleen V. Davis was named the College's second president. She served from 1999 to 2001.Â
The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools granted the College accreditation.
Dr. Anna D. Weitz was named the College's third president. She served from 2002 to 2007.
Dr. Walter J. Asonevich was named the College's fourth president. He served from 2007 to 2019.Â
The College established its first true home base in 2007 with the opening of its Richland Campus.
The College expands its footprint into Blair County. Our Blair Center opened its doors in the Logan Valley Mall on July 31, 2013.
The National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships granted the College national accreditation for its Accelerated College Education concurrent enrollment program on May 12, 2014.
The Medical Assisting Technology program was awarded initial accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs on September 16, 2016.
Our Men’s Basketball team won the WPCC Title for the first time in Penn Highlands history on February 18, 2018.
The National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security designated the College as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE2Y).
During the Convocation Ceremony on August 22, 2019, the new and updated Alma Mater was played for the first time to a group of incoming students.
The song, penned by Gary Boast, earned its selection via a competitive process.
Dr. Steven C. Nunez was named the College's fifth president. He began his tenure in 2020.Â