Where It All Began (1933-1950): The Founding Years with President Emeritus Stephen Jerome

Join host Ann Marie Ferguson, Executive Director of the Monroe Foundation, for an enlightening journey into the rich history of Monroe College with a special guest, President Emeritus Stephen Jerome. Together, they unveil the inspiring tale of how Monroe College, a renowned institution of higher learning for over 90 years, came into existence.President Jerome, a pivotal figure in Monroe's history, shares his invaluable insights and personal anecdotes about the college's inception. Get ready to travel back to the college's modest origins in 1933, when Mildred King, a trailblazing woman of her time, acquired a small private business school in the Bronx, defying societal norms during the Great Depression.Discover how Monroe College focused on practical skills like bookkeeping, secretarial studies, and optometry to empower students, even those with liberal arts degrees. These programs provided opportunities for gainful employment during challenging economic times.The episode also delves into Monroe College's early certification programs, allowing students to earn certificates after completing short-term courses. It's a story of determination, vision, and commitment that laid the foundation for Monroe College's 90-year legacy of educational excellence.Join us to uncover how Monroe College's pioneering spirit and dedication to empowering students began in the heart of the Bronx during a challenging era, shaping the institution's incredible journey and transforming countless lives.