News and Events

The Alexandria Technical & Community College Foundation hosted its annual Legends Gala at Crooked Willow on Friday, October 2, 2026. This year's event marked the kickoff of ATCC's 65th anniversary celebration and introduced The Best is Yet to Come, a new campaign focused on building an even stronger future for ATCC students. 

Proceeds from the Gala will support the new Student Success Center, a space designed to help current and future Legends discover their potential, build lifelong connections, and prepare for meaningful careers. 

Community leaders, donors, alumni, friends of the college, and former college presidents gathered to celebrate ATCC's past, present, and future. The evening began with a social hour, followed by dinner catered by Pioneer Grill Catering and entertainment from Fargo-based Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome. 

The ATCC Foundation also recognized Jeanne Batesole and Polaris as the 2026 Philanthropists of the Year, honoring their extraordinary commitment to ATCC students and their continued support of the college. 

One of the evening's highlights came from ATCC graduate Nicole Ray, who shared how her college experience helped transform an interest in Powersports into a career she loves. Ray, a graduate of ATCC's Marine, Motorcycle and Powersports program, entered the program with little mechanical experience and today works as a Rework Technician at Indian Motorcycle. 

Through hands-on learning, involvement in Clay Target, Student Senate and SkillsUSA, an industry internship, and support from a Polaris Workforce Development Scholarship, Ray gained the confidence, technical skills, and industry connections that helped shape her future. 

She credits ATCC with teaching her far more than how engines work. Her experience taught her to ask questions, believe in her abilities, and embrace opportunities that ultimately opened doors to a rewarding career in an industry she is passionate about. 

The Alexandria Technical & Community College Foundation extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, donated, and supported the 2026 Legends Gala. Funds raised through the event will help make the new Student Success Center a reality, creating opportunities that will directly benefit ATCC students, our community, and the industries our graduates serve. 

At ATCC, we believe The Best is Yet to Come. Together, we are building on 65 years of excellence while creating a future filled with opportunity, innovation, and promise for the next generation of Legends. 

We look forward to celebrating with our community again at the annual Legends Gala on Friday, October 1, 2027.