2025S0222-1 03/12/25
By: Kolkhorst S.R. No. 338
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Victoria College on the grand occasion of its 100th
anniversary; and
WHEREAS, On February 4, 1925, the Victoria Independent
School District Board of Trustees voted to establish Victoria
Junior College, now known as Victoria College; under the
leadership of superintendent Virgil L. Griffin, who also served
as the college's first president, classes commenced on September
14, 1925, for 51 students on the third floor of Patti Welder High
School; and
WHEREAS, The rapid growth of the institution soon
necessitated expansion, and a two-story building was constructed
in 1927 for the junior college adjacent to the high school;
Victoria College remained under the governance of Victoria
Independent School District until 1949 when an independent board
of trustees was established, although the partnership between
the college and the school district has continued; and
WHEREAS, Over the past century, Victoria College has
transformed into a comprehensive community college, and it now
serves more than 7,000 students annually through academic
programs and workforce training that prepares students for
careers in business and technology, health care, industrial
trades, and public service; the expansion of its facilities
includes a 16-building main campus on 60 acres in Victoria and
facilities in Hallettsville, Gonzalez, and downtown Victoria;
and
WHEREAS, Victoria College further serves people in the
Golden Crescent Region through its Zelda L. Allen School of
Nursing, Museum of the Coastal Bend, Gonzales Center, Leo J.
Welder Center for the Performing Arts, Liberty Street Industrial
Training Center, and Emerging Technology Complex; in addition,
the college is constructing a new Student Success Center, which
is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025; and
WHEREAS, Victoria College plays an essential role in
providing quality education and valuable training opportunities
that support area residents looking to pursue higher education or
career advancement close to home while managing their other
responsibilities, as well as increasing the economic prosperity
of the region; the school is truly deserving of recognition for
reaching this milestone in its impressive history; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
Legislature, hereby recognize Victoria College on the occasion
of its 100th anniversary and commend its leadership, faculty, and
staff on their invaluable contributions to higher education in
Texas; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
the college in honor of this special occasion.