Haywood Community College opened in August 1965 as Haywood Industrial Education Center with one curriculum program and 39 students. Today, HCC offers over 50 curriculum programs to over 3500 students. Approximately 6,000 more students attend classes through its continuing education division, including adult basic education, GED preparation, occupational courses, and community service programs.In 1975, the Haywood Community College Foundation was created to aid, strengthen, and further the work and service of Haywood Community College. The HCC Board of Trustees approved the start of the campus arboretum in October 1977 and John Palmer was appointed as the founding director in November.