Miami, Sept. 9, 2021 – Miami Dade College (MDC) raised more than $1.4 million during its 6th Annual I AM MDC Day. I AM MDC Day is commemorated on Sept. 6, the first day of classes at MDC back in 1960 and celebrates MDC’s tradition of elevating our community and changing lives through education and opportunity. The day of school pride also raises critical funds for scholarships and programs for students.
Festivities were held at all eight MDC campuses to mark the special occasion. At MDC’s Wolfson Campus, alumnus and radio personality Kelbin Ramirez, morning show co-host on HITS 97.3 FM, was awarded the Finnbassador Award. Ramirez attended MDC with the College’s American Dream scholarship, which covers up to 60 credits toward an associate degree.
MDC first opened its doors on September 6, 1960 amid desegregation and the influx of thousands of Cuban refugees. The first class only had 1,428 students, including seven Black students, making it the first integrated junior college in Florida. Today, MDC is one of the largest higher learning institutions in the United States and is a champion for diversity, resilience and educational excellence. Most recently, the College launched the Presidential Scholars Program, which offers high-performing graduating high school students in Miami-Dade County the opportunity to complete an associate degree at no cost, and the Rising Black Scholars Program, which provides Black students free tuition for up to two years, plus academic and co-curricular experiences to equip students with the knowledge, resources and skills for success. MDC will also partner with SoftBank and area universities on a new program designed to upskill a new generation of tech business operators in Miami and Latin America.
I AM MDC Day is organized by the Miami Dade College Foundation, which raises essential private funds for student scholarships and programs. I AM MDC Day is generously supported by corporate partners, including the PepsiCo Foundation, GEICO, Globant, and Cisneros.
As part of the ongoing celebration to mark the College’s 61st birthday, MDC will partner with Miami Marlins to host a Miami Dade College Night during the Marlins vs. Pirates game at 6:10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, at loanDepot Park. The ticket package includes a commemorative MDC t-shirt and special pricing for students, faculty, staff, and alumni, plus access to the pre-game Sharks parade. For more information, visit https://www.mlb.com/marlins/tickets/specials/miami-dade-college.