College of Marin celebrates 100 years

By Gloria Hubbell Corena

Editor-in-Chief

On April 6th, 2026, College of Marin held its Founder Day event. This celebration honored the founding of the college on April 6th,1926, exactly 100 years ago. The centennial event, which recognized the college’s longevity and importance in the lives of its students, was also the annual Spring Fling. College of Marin hosted 7 food trucks that gave out free food and drinks. The mood was light and jovial, highlighted by the music of the all-women mariachi band and a DJ who played an array of genres. Different clubs, communities, and a few local businesses were present throughout the celebrations. Spring-themed activities were showcased, such as the planting of succulents by the Umojua scholars. The Sustainability Club gave out hundreds of seeds that they had spent the week hand-packaging. Other popular activities, such as arts and crafts, were found throughout the event; these included bracelet making and rock painting. The event also awarded three students for their proposals in the Centennial Ideation Challenge. The students who were awarded checks were presented by College of Marin Superintendent/President Jonathan Eldridge. COM winners were Varun Sanjeev in first place for “AI Transfer Agent,” Meztli Mendieta for “Coffee and Careers,” and in third place was Michael Dechabert for “Cultural Fusion Fair.” Awards and events such as these showcase how College of Marin seeks to support and uplift its students. For the last hundred years, College of Marin has played a crucial role in launching new chapters in people’s lives. It will continue to be an essential part of every story that begins here, for all those starting their next journey on campus.