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2025 was a year of transformation and change for HCC

Dec 16, 2025


HCC officials pose for a photo at HCC Convocation.

For Houston City College (HCC), 2025 was both a year of milestones and turning points.

After nearly 55 years as Houston Community College, the institution stepped confidently into the future with a new name, one that captures the energy, ambition and innovation taking shape across our campuses. With new bachelor’s degrees emerging in fields like artificial intelligence and health care management, the name, Houston City College, reflects who HCC is today: a bold, future-focused institution preparing students for the opportunities of tomorrow. 

The new name and brand identity symbolize a renewed commitment to providing more programs, more partnerships and more pathways that strengthen the workforce and empower our community. This year, that commitment came to life in several ways.

Key Achievements in 2025

HCC welcomed new partners who share our belief in the power of education to transform lives.

  • Partnership with Houston Dynamo FC: HCC joined forces with Houston Dynamo FC to expand career pathways in sports, entertainment and business. Through internships, scholarships and community initiatives, this collaboration opens new doors for students seeking real-world experience and upward mobility.
  • National Leader in Artificial Intelligence: As the first community college in the nation to offer both an associate and baccalaureate degree in artificial intelligence, HCC’s pioneering work in AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and virtual and augmented reality has positioned the college as a national model for innovation. HCC’s expanding portfolio of programs drew the attention of Intel, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, Apple and Google.
  • Google’s AI Investment: Google awarded HCC a $2 million grant to hire additional AI faculty, strengthen curriculum and create more opportunities for students to enter high-demand AI careers. HCC is the only community college in Texas selected for this initiative.
  • Student Success Initiatives: HCC launched two major programs to help students return, complete and advance their education. “Houston Reconnect” is designed to bring former HCC students back to complete unfinished credentials. “Connect2Workforce” helps individuals acquire new skills for quick entry into high-demand fields.
  • Cybersecurity Workforce Development: In partnership with Texas A&M University and the U.S. Department of Defense, HCC now trains the next generation of cybersecurity professionals through the VICEROY program. VICEROY scholars can pursue pathways to civilian and commissioned careers with organizations with agencies such as the NSA, CIA, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Space Force.
  • Construction Career Pathways with Lennar: HCC is helping build the workforce of tomorrow with Lennar. The homebuilding giant’s foundation has invested in training students interested in construction careers. The initiative offers courses on HCC campuses and inside the Harris County Jail system. Graduates can connect with Lennar Homes and Talent Builders Foundation for employment—creating opportunity and offering second chances.
  • New Nursing Pathway: The new Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at Coleman College for Health Sciences addresses the state and national shortage of nurses. The accelerated, three- semester program will graduate its first cohort in August.
  • Credit for Law Enforcement Cadets: Cadets at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy at the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office can now earn college credit for successful completion of the Basic Peace Officer course training, helping them advance their careers more efficiently and affordably.
  • EMS Program Ranked #1 in Texas: The HCC Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program earned the top ranking in the state. With a 99% pass rate on the National Registry exam––far exceeding the state average, the EMS program leads the state in excellence and readiness.

More to come in 2026…

HCC will build on this momentum by exploring new bachelor’s degrees in business, computer information systems and nursing. These efforts support the college’s long-term vision to deliver a “Real World Education for a Talent Strong Houston” and to ensure that every student has access to high-quality pathways leading to economic mobility and personal success.