HONORING THE COLLEGE OF MARIN

On 2026-04-06, Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE COLLEGE OF MARIN" in the House. The speech addressed immigration and also covered healthcare, taxes.

HONORING THE COLLEGE OF MARIN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 62 (Monday, April 6, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 62 (Monday, April 6, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E301-E302] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE COLLEGE OF MARIN ______ HON. JARED HUFFMAN of california in the house of representatives Monday, April 6, 2026 Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the College of Marin on the momentous occasion of its centennial anniversary and in appreciation for a century of quality education provided to the communities of Marin County and the Bay Area. Over the last 100 years, College of Marin has served as a cornerstone of higher education in Marin County, providing accessible opportunities to students of diverse social and economic backgrounds. Founded in 1926 as the Marin Junior College, the school was the product of a Tamalpais Union High School District college initiative supported by the San Rafael High School District and established by popular vote. The Tamalpais Union High School District leased the 13-acre Butler tract in Kentfield, establishing the campus, which would grow into more than 400 acres across multiple campuses. The Marin Junior College's first class of 87 students began with six faculty members in 1926 under the leadership of president A.C. Olney. Throughout the 1930s, the campus grew, acquiring more property and continuing to expand its arts and athletics programs. During World War II, Marin Junior College offered military support and training, including courses at the Hamilton Army Airfield. In 1948 it was renamed the College of Marin. Responding to growing national interest in more comprehensive, personalized education, the College began a new expansion initiative in the 1960s. By 1962, enrollment had grown to 2,500 students and in 1971, the school established its Indian Valley campus in Novato. Today, the College of Marin offers 469 degrees and certificates. This includes their workforce development programs that support employment in critical, high-demand fields like healthcare and skilled trades. The school continues to adapt and innovate to provide programs best tailored to support a diversity of students, including undocumented, first generation, and older adult students. College of Marin also boasts the highest transfer acceptance rate for the University of California Berkeley with approximately 40 percent of applicants admitted in the past two years. Beyond its students, the school's impact on California's economy is undeniable, including providing nearly 800 jobs and $9 million in tax revenue. The College of Marin has been a pioneering institution in our region, renowned for its strong dedication to student success and equity for decades. The College of Marin Foundation offers over 150 scholarships annually and last year announced the establishment of the Jay Pritzker Foundation Centennial Endowment Fund, a $20 million fund to support students' critical non-tuition related expenses, [[Page E302]] including healthcare, childcare, computers, and food. A vital institution of higher learning for the Bay Area, the College of Marin is worthy of the highest commendation. Mr. Speaker, please join us in recognizing the College of Marin on the occasion of its 100th anniversary and offering the College our best wishes for another century of success. ____________________