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A M E S S A G E F R O M T H E C H A N C E L L O R

A 40-Year Legacy of Service

“History never looks like history when you are living through it.”
– John W. Gardner (1912-2002)

John Gardner’s take on history applies to us. At College of the Canyons, we can look
back proudly on our 40 years of achievements and accomplishments because we have the
documents, files, photos, records, anecdotes and verbal histories that have captured signifi-
cant moments in time.
But not all of our moments are documented. They can’t be. The prism of history allows
us to select the events, the people and the moments that, in retrospect, were pivotal in mak-
ing us who we are today.
Through this book, we can enjoy reminiscing about our past at a
single sitting, but as we embark on our next 40 years, we will – as did
those who preceded us – create our history by treating each moment as
if it will be historic, by doing our very best all the time.
The simple point is that for 40 years, every individual in every
department, in every office, in every classroom – whatever the subject
or topic or challenge at hand – focused on serving our students, our
community or profession, and each other the best way they knew how.
The people who have graced COC with their presence over the years
and those who are with us now, share common attributes and passions.
They always think big. They embrace a common vision and pursue Dr. Dianne G.
goals with innovation, energy and enthusiasm. But most importantly, Van Hook
they never, ever give up.

From our humble beginnings over at Hart High School, with just a handful of students
and programs, to the many services and programs we offer the community today, we have
done our jobs over the years very, very well. I know that the next 40 years will evolve the
same way and that COC’s future history books will be filled with achievements based on
making the most of each moment.
The Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, students and volunteers all share in
the celebration of what we have accomplished and how we will proceed into the future.
Though the faces have changed, the desire to do more and to do it better guides us into
the future and promises that the next four decades will be even more amazing.

DIANNE G. VAN HOOK
CHANCELLOR

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