College of DuPage Board Chairman, Students Celebrate the Holidays at Elmhurst Tree Lighting

College of DuPage Board Chairman and Elmhurst resident Deanne Mazzochi (top left) is joined by COD students (clockwise) Daisy Martinez, Danielle Tibwell, Lindsay Flinker and Dawn Yackley Dec. 8 at the Elmhurst Park District's annual tree lighting in Wilder Park. The College sponsored one of the dozens of trees on display to commemorate COD's 50th anniversary year. Chartered in 1965 and opening its doors in 1967, College of DuPage was originally formed from 10 high school districts. Since that time, it has evolved and grown into a modern, state-of-the-art institution that has provided high-quality instruction to more than one million students over the past 50 years.

Today, College of DuPage is an accredited community college that serves more than 27,000 students each term. The College, which grants nine associate degrees and more than 170 certificates in 100 areas of study, is the second largest provider of public undergraduate education in Illinois.

To celebrate its 50th anniversary and its continued service to the residents of District 502, greater DuPage County and beyond, the College is hosting several on- and off-campus events to highlight the institution's robust history and continued service to students and District 502 residents over the past half-century.

The College also will sponsor traveling history exhibits throughout District 502, participate in local parades and host alumni lectures. Click here for a list of all 50th anniversary festivities. A full list of campus events can be found on the College's events calendar. (Press Photography Network/Special to College of DuPage)