Kirtland Community College Celebrates 60 Years of Community Service and Education in Northern MI

Kirtland Community College Celebrates 60 Years of Community Service and Education in Northern Michigan

By Kirtland Community College Communications and Marketing Department
 

GRAYLING, MI (Sep. 3, 2025) – Kirtland Community College is proud to announce its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of educational excellence, community partnerships, and service to northern Michigan. Throughout the 2025-2026 academic year, the College will celebrate this milestone with a year-long series of events, publications, and community engagement opportunities designed to honor its past while looking toward the future.

"The fact that Kirtland Community College has been staple in the area for 60 years is a testament to how much the community supports it. Literally thousands of students have walked through the hallways of Kirtland and are now contributing citizens and taxpayers in our very own communities,” said Kirtland President Dr. Gary Roberts. “Kirtland is very proud of the role it has played in their overall success and contribution to the region that surrounds us. We are here to serve our community for another 60 years and beyond."

Founded in 1966, Kirtland has evolved over the years from its beginnings into a cornerstone of higher education and workforce development for Crawford, Ogemaw, Oscoda, and Roscommon counties, as well as beyond. The 60th anniversary celebration will spotlight Kirtland's history, achievements, and enduring commitment to student success.
 

Kirtland's story began in the early 1960s with a vision to expand educational opportunities in the region.

Representatives from the K-12 districts of Crawford, Ogemaw, Oscoda, and Roscommon counties met in February 1964 to “discuss the possibility of widening the educational opportunities for the people in the four-county area.” Within a few months, a citizens' advisory committee was formed to determine if a community college in the area would be feasible.

On March 7, 1966, voters from the four-county area approved the establishment of the College and a one-mill levy to finance operations. The College opened temporary offices and held its first official board meeting on March 25, 1966, in the Roscommon County Building. Kirtland Community College was the name chosen by the Board of Trustees.

Land was later secured on F-97 in Roscommon County to build classrooms and offices. On September 30, 1966, Kirtland Community College opened for classes in six relocatable classrooms. In 2016, Kirtland relocated to its new and current main campus in Grayling, Michigan, while also continuing to operate and grow the Gaylord, Michigan site.

Today, Kirtland offers certificates and degrees in many programs as well as the option to transfer to a four-year institution. Many Kirtland graduates continue to live in the area and provide services to the community, including police officers, automotive service technicians, nurses, and cosmetologists.

"Over 60 years ago, a group of people gathered with a vision of bridging the “education desert” in the region. The establishment and existence of Kirtland allows residents to pursue training and other educational opportunities while living close to home and contributing to their communities. What they thought might have been impossible is possible when enrolling at Kirtland," said Deb Shumaker, Director of Library and Tutoring

This foundational spirit of collaboration and community investment has remained central to Kirtland's mission for six decades.

Since its founding, Kirtland has grown to serve thousands of students through associate degree programs, technical training, transfer pathways, and workforce development initiatives. The College has consistently adapted to meet the changing needs of students and industries, helping prepare graduates for vital roles in healthcare, public service, skilled trades, business, and the arts.

Kirtland has also embraced innovation in education, expanding its reach through online learning, dual enrollment, and investing in modern facilities. Its partnerships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations continue to strengthen the region's economic and cultural vitality.

"I have worked at Kirtland for nearly a quarter-century and have watched the college, its students, and its academic programs evolve and adapt to the changing world around them. For sixty years, Kirtland has prepared students for a constantly-changing future and we will continue to do so for the next sixty years and beyond," said John Thiel, Vice President of Academic Affairs.

In March 2026, Kirtland will host an Open House event in honor of its official birthday. This community-centered event will welcome alums, current students, faculty, staff, and the public to explore the campus, reconnect with memories, and celebrate the shared legacy of education and

opportunity. Additional events and promotional campaigns throughout the year will ensure the entire Kirtland community has the chance to join in the celebration.

As Kirtland celebrates its 60th anniversary, it remains committed to its founding promise: providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to learners of all ages. The anniversary theme — "60 Years of Service to Our Communities" — reflects this dedication to celebrating achievements while preparing for the opportunities ahead.
 

About Kirtland Community College:
Kirtland Community College has been inspiring excellence for over 50 years and offers courses in Grayling, Gaylord, and online. Our mission at Kirtland is to provide innovative educational opportunities to enhance student lives and build stronger communities. Through our offered educational programs, we believe Kirtland will be the first choice for learner-centered education guiding students and communities toward success. For more information about Kirtland Community College, visit Kirtland.edu, or call (989) 275-5000.