Notable Contributor
Diane Thayer
Diane Thayer knew Garrett County needed Garrett College – and she was willing to contribute her time to help make it a success.
"I thought it was imperative for a community college to be established in Garrett County," said Thayer, who was appointed by the Garrett County Board of Education to be the chair of the new college's first Board of Trustees.
Thayer – whose husband, the late Frederick A. Thayer III, was a distinguish Garrett County jurist – said Garrett College immediately served a critical role in preparing county residents for high-paying careers.
"I thought the technical programs were of prime importance to help the children of Garrett County earn a living in Garrett County," said Thayer. "I'm a big fan of our community college in Garrett County and in the community college concept."
One of Thayer's most cherished Garrett College memories is of the Class of 1973, which was the first graduating class from Garrett College.
"I can remember that first graduation," said Thayer, noting it took place in the old gymnasium that will soon serve as the theatre for the college's new performing arts center. "I congratulated the citizens of Garrett County for having the foresight to establish the community college. It was just an overwhelming emotion – but I controlled myself."
Thayer noted the key roles played by founding President Luther Shaw ("He was very approachable to all the citizens of Garrett County," she noted) and Superintendent of Schools Willard Hawkins, who petitioned the state on behalf of the county to create what was originally known as Garrett Community College.
Thayer said the original Board of Trustees had a specific reason for selecting the site of the college's main campus in McHenry.
"That site was selected because it was equally accessible to the northern end and southern end of Garrett County," said Thayer, noting the location of the college has made it a central focus of county activity.
