In 1958, Prairie State College (then Bloom Community College) began offering only transfer liberal arts courses and occupational-technical classes. In 1967, the college was reorganized as a Class I junior college and renamed. Prairie State College now is a comprehensive community college offering associate degrees, technical and career certificates, and adult, corporate, and continuing education. This year, we are celebrating 60 years of educating the community, and we welcome you to become a part of our history.

"I remember well how the institution began. After numerous studies and much discussion, in 1957 the citizens of the Bloom Township area voted to support a college designed to meet the post-high school and adult education needs of the people of the community. A small professional, part-time staff spent the summer of 1958 bringing Bloom Township Community College (in the summer of 1966 renamed Prairie State College) into being." Albert H. Martin, first Dean and later President.