Metro Business College began its first semester in Jefferson City 30 years ago in August 1985. The local community college marked the anniversary last Thursday with a celebration open to the community, showcasing some of the school's programs like massage therapy.
The college's first Jefferson City location was at the corner of Lafayette and McCarty streets.
"Our first graduating class actually had one student in it," said Admissions Representative Shawn Nesbitt. "Now an average graduating class is about 20-30, with four graduations every year."
Metro Business College moved to a campus on Southwest Boulevard in 1988, then moved to its current campus at El Mercado Plaza in 2012.
In 2004, the college's Jefferson City branch renamed its campus in honor of Jan Blaise, former director of student services. "She was with us from the very beginning," Nesbitt said.
Over the local campus' 30 years, Metro Business College's offerings have evolved some. A few degree programs, such as the travel agency and secretarial programs, have faded out, while new options like the current accounting paraprofessional program have taken their place.
Metro Business College's oldest campus is in Cape Girardeau, which opened in 1981. The community college also operates branches in Arnold and Rolla.