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In April of 1974, William King Brown, administrator of the city-owned Brackenridge Hospital, recommended that the hospital transfer its highly regarded nursing school to Austin Community College. Cost was the main reason. Brown estimated that operating expenses, including food and dormitory services, would exceed $500,000. Having ACC take over the first two years of the school’s three-year program would save the hospital as much as $350,000 and free up space needed for hospital beds. Brackenridge’s governing board narrowly approved the arrangement, and on July 19, the Austin City Council approved the transfer that became effective September 1. Seventeen instructors and one clerical employee joined the ACC faculty and staff in what would become ACC’s distinguished Allied Health Sciences Division.

Video interview with Cecile Sanders

nursing group photo

ACC/Brackenridge students pose for a graduation photo.

Acquiring Brackenridge was one of many signs of spirited growth during ACC’s initial year. Everyone associated with ACC was proving wrong those who argued that Austin didn’t need a community college. As it prepared to enter its second year, ACC launched a dental assistant program and joined with the city’s Zachary Scott Theater in starting a new drama program. Altogether, ACC added nineteen new occupational/vocational and university parallel programs.

classroom

Following the recommendation of Brackenridge Hospital administrator, William King Brown, the Austin City Council approved the merger of the Brackenridge School of Nursing with Austin Community College, effective September 1.

Expanded course offerings contributed to enrollment and budget increases as well. During fall registration, more than 7,000 students signed up for classes. For the first time, ACC joined the state’s other 46 public community and junior colleges in lobbying the Texas Legislature for biennial funding.

closed student dormitories

When Brackenridge School of Nursing merged with ACC, the hospital closed the student dormitory and cafeteria as a cost-saving measure. The city agreed to provide out-of-town students with allowances for room and board.

Nursing school building

ACC/Brackenridge Nursing School building, adjacent to the city-owned Brackenridge Hospital on 15th St.