Another 5 million took non-credit classes, the majority of which were workforce training courses. Since 1901, at least 100 million people have attended community colleges. Each community college is a distinct educational institution, loosely linked to other community colleges by the shared goals of access and service. Open admissions and the tradition of charging low tuition are among the practices they have in common. But each community college has it own mission .
Community colleges offer a great deal more than credit and non-credit classes.
In 1988, with society becoming increasingly fragmented, the Commission on the Future of Community Colleges recommended that community colleges help build a sense of community by creating partnerships and making facilities available to civic groups. In the 20 th century, community colleges have not only survived, they have thrived. Community colleges have demonstrated remarkable resiliency, becoming centers of educational opportunity open to all seekers. They pride themselves on providing educational marketplaces where student choices and community needs influence course offerings. The American Association of Community Colleges will recognize the 100 th anniversary of community colleges in 2001, marking a century in which community colleges have helped millions of people learn and advance toward personal goals, while providing a forum to address challenges facing whole communities.