College of the Redwoods opens its 2024-25 academic year on Monday. This is an especially important semester opening because this fall marks our diamond anniversary. CR has been your community college for 60 years providing exceptional general education, vocational training, and transfer opportunities to four-year universities to thousands of students.

Formed in 1964 by a vote of the residents of Humboldt County, the Redwoods Community College District secured a bond issue of $3,600,000 for the construction of the college’s Eureka Campus. The establishment of the Redwoods Community College District and its subsequent growth highlight the successful implementation of the State of California’s Master Plan’s vision of accessible, locally controlled community colleges serving the diverse educational needs of Californians.

Now, as we celebrate our 60th anniversary, I am reminded of all the shoulders we stand upon in achieving our current successes, and the foundation we must sustain for the generations that follow. We would not be the vibrant institution we are today if it were not for the dedication and commitment of those faculty and staff who came before us. It is also important to acknowledge the important contributions that our Board of Trustees make to ensure that the college remains connected to the community. The fact that our Board of Trustees are elected by area from throughout the college’s service district guarantees that CR remains aligned with the values of our community and that each of our district areas has a voice in the decision-making process.

Over the past six decades, College of the Redwoods has been a beacon of learning, growth and community spirit. Having overcome past accreditation challenges and budget challenges, our institution has emerged stronger and more vibrant than ever. I am proud to say that today our college sees 60% of our graduates go on the four-year institutions, has almost 70% of our students persist from fall to spring, and an over 90% course retention rate, while close to 80% of students succeed in their courses with a C or better.

At no time in our recent history has the need for us to publicly commit ourselves to protect the right of free speech — regardless of whether we agree with that speech or not — been more critical. To create environments for conversations with students, employees and community partners about uncomfortable topics and constitutional rights. To eliminate racism and provide more opportunities for all people. And to proactively address environments and actions that do not uphold our values and responsibilities.

Be assured that we will remain steadfast in our efforts and that we look forward to working with community partners and individuals throughout our service area to promote a safe environment for all. We will listen and we will act.

I know that College of the Redwoods and our community will face many difficult problems in the future. However, I am confident and hopeful that we will face our uncertain future together. It would be good for all of us to internalize Mahatma Gandhi’s quote: “The future depends on what you do today” is as important today as it was yesterday.

Dr. Keith Flamer is the president of the College of the Redwoods.