Bellevue College seeks to honor ‘the exceptional 50’

Do you know someone who has contributed greatly to Bellevue College's success? To celebrate its 50th anniversary, BC is calling on the community to help nominate 50 exceptional people who have made an indelible mark on the institution. In October, "The Exceptional 50" will be honored with a special reception during the college's homecoming week festivities.

Do you know someone who has contributed greatly to Bellevue College’s success? To celebrate its 50th anniversary, BC is calling on the community to help nominate 50 exceptional people who have made an indelible mark on the institution. In October, “The Exceptional 50” will be honored with a special reception during the college’s homecoming week festivities.

When then-Bellevue Community College opened its doors in 1966, 50 people camped out overnight to be the first in line to enroll, and that year 464 students registered for classes. Today, Bellevue College is the third-largest institution of higher education in the state of Washington, with an average annual enrollment of 33,000, offering four-year bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates and continuing education programs in nearly 100 professional and technical fields.

That level of growth, innovation and evolution is only achieved through the dedication of many: early pioneers, modern visionaries, community leaders, alumni, professors and students throughout the decades.

“It takes a community to build a college that serves such a broad spectrum of students and puts a degree within reach. This is an opportunity for us to celebrate our collective accomplishments, and shine a light on the unsung heroes who have made it possible for so many to achieve their dream,” said Alonda Williams, director of marketing at Bellevue College, in a press release from the college.

Nominations can be made by visiting the Bellevue College 50th Anniversary website at www.bellevuecollege.edu/50years/homecoming. All entries must be received by Sept. 19. For more information, contact BChomecoming@bellevuecollege.edu. The public is also invited to attend the BC Homecoming Festival on Oct. 15, with a food truck rally, a mobile video game truck, live music concerts and family activities.