About NVC

In the early 1900s, the term "junior college" was coined. During the 1960s, the "community college" movement took root. Community colleges made access to higher education easy and affordable for everyone through their cornerstone "Open Door" policy. For some, the community college serves as a springboard to further education; for others, it's a launchpad for careers through career and workforce training. Community colleges also offer developmental education, strong student support services, and are increasingly involved in community service.

St. Philip's College (founded in 1898 to educate emancipated slaves) and San Antonio College (established in 1925 as a junior college for the University of Texas) were the pioneers in the Alamo Colleges District, joining the District in 1945. Nearly 40 years later, in 1983, Palo Alto College joined as the third college within the District.

In the 1990s, there was a boom of development in the northwest quadrant of San Antonio. World Savings Bank donated property to the Alamo Colleges District for the purpose of building a new campus. Northwest Vista College began offering classes in 1995, followed by Northeast Lakeview College in 2008.

In the summer of 2000, a series of wildcat sightings and the discovery of numerous paw prints led to the selection of NVC’s beloved mascot, the Wildcat. During that year, a wildcat cub was spotted on campus, suggesting the presence of a family of wildcats in the area.

Following these events, the Wildcat emerged as a natural and fitting choice. It was determined that Wildcats embody the spirit of the Northwest Vista College community – strong, determined, and always striving for success.

Empowering Our Diverse Communities for Success