History and Traditions

Collage featuring a cow, a garden with students working, and a bucket of vegetables, representing agriculture and community education at McLennan Community College.

Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Present, Inspiring the Future

McLennan Community College is proud to commemorate 60 years of service and impact since opening its doors in November 1965.

Over the past six decades, MCC has experienced remarkable growth in campus footprint, academic programs, regional influence, and student enrollment. MCC now serves over 8,000 students annually across more than 140 credit and non-credit programs.

As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to join us for a series of special 60th anniversary events. More details will be shared soon—we look forward to celebrating with you!

History

Located in Waco, Texas, McLennan was established in 1965 by the citizens of McLennan County. McLennan was the first junior college in Texas to incorporate the word "community" in its name. For 60 years, McLennan has been serving Waco and the surrounding areas to help community members achieve their educational goals.

Traditions

The McLennan tartan, the wool fabric with the distinctive plaid pattern of the McLennan clan, is the official college banner.

The McLennan crest, depicted by a human heart pierced by passion nails, is the official college seal. The motto of the crest is “HOC MAJORUM VIRTUS,” which is interpreted as “This is the valor of my ancestors.” The colors of the McLennan tartan are the official college colors. The college flag displays a Highlander in black against an orange and white background.

MCC Alma Mater

High above still Bosque waters,
We with reverence sing to thee.
Of our love and our devotion,
Of our pride and loyalty.

Long may McLennan stand
Honor is her due.
May a grateful generation
To her name be true.

Hear us now O' Alma Mater,
As we proudly sing to thee,
Take from us our hearts devotion,
Hail to M.C.C.

MCC Chorale singing the MCC Alma Mater
Music and lyrics by Rob Page, Former (retired) Division Chair, Visual and Performing Arts & music instructor

Download the song here!

McLennan Community College's Highlander mascot, "Mac," stands proudly in a Scottish kilt and tam, holding a silver sword in one hand and a round shield featuring the MCC logo in the other. He has a large orange beard and an expressive cartoon-style face.

Mascot

McLennan’s proud mascot is the Highlander — a bold Scottish warrior dressed for battle with sword and shield in hand. You’ll often find our mascot, Mac, bringing energy and Highlander pride to athletic games, campus happenings, and community events. Learn more about Mac the Highlander and how our beloved mascot came to be the face of MCC.

Athletic Excellence

Over the last three decades, the Highlanders and Highlassies have established a tradition of excellence. McLennan teams have won nine NJCAA National Championships, and the McLennan Dance Company is one of the most recognized junior college squads in the nation. Athletes perform well in the classroom as well, regularly earning NJCAA Academic Team of the Year honors.