Harper Happenings Collection

Soon after it was founded by referendum in 1965, Harper College, or Junior College District 30, as it was known then, began publishing a newsletter documenting its progress and campus news of note. Early issues described the search for a site and the acquisition of the Jayne property, the hiring of administrators, consultants and architects, the application for accreditation, and the formation of various committees and sub-committees. Barrington was incorporated into Harper College District #512 in 1967, and the college held its first classes in a temporary location on the campus of Elk Grove High School. It was an exciting time for Harper, as early enrollment exceeded expectations, and construction began on the main campus. Enrollment continued to climb sharply in 1968 and beyond. In 1971, Harper College was accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. A special edition of Harper Happenings was issued April 30, 1971 (vol. 6, no. 3) to commemorate the milestone.