For many Kentfield residents, College of Marin is a familiar part of the landscape—something you pass regularly along College Avenue or Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. But in 2026, the college has had particular reason to celebrate: it marked its 100th anniversary.
The centennial has included special events, performances and gatherings throughout the year. And while many of the formal celebrations took place this spring, there is still plenty happening on the Kentfield campus this fall.
A New Center for Student Life
One of the most visible changes is the new Dr. David Wain Coon Center for Student Success, which officially opened in February.
The 86,344-square-foot building brings a wide range of student services together under one roof, including academic resources, counseling and wellness programs, learning spaces and a café. It also provides new gathering areas designed to strengthen the connection between students and the broader campus community.
For those of us who have watched the Kentfield campus evolve over the years, it is a significant addition—and one that will remain long after the centennial banners come down.
Performing Arts Close to Home
College of Marin's performing arts program is another community resource that can be easy to overlook.
This fall, the drama program presents Defying Gravity by Jane Anderson, directed by Lisa Morse, from October 2 through October 18 at the James Dunn Theatre.
December brings an especially full schedule of music and theater, including performances by the COM Jazz Ensemble, Golden Gate Brass Band, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, College of Marin Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Wind Ensemble, along with Book of Days and Marin Oratorio.
Many of these performances are open to the public with free tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The College of Marin Symphony Orchestra has a particularly long history of its own. Founded in 1930, the 60-member ensemble brings together College of Marin students and musicians from the surrounding community.
More Than a College Campus
College of Marin's role in the community extends well beyond classes and performances. Its Kentfield campus provides student counseling and wellness services, tutoring and other academic support, while programs such as Basic Needs Food Distribution continue throughout the semester.
That broader role is part of what makes the college such a longstanding Marin institution. A century after its founding, it continues to serve students while also bringing cultural, educational and community resources to the area.
A Kentfield Institution at 100
Anniversaries naturally invite us to look backward, but College of Marin's centennial also offers a good reason to look at what is happening there now.
The new Center for Student Success, an active performing arts calendar and ongoing community programs are reminders that this familiar Kentfield landmark is much more than the campus many of us pass on our daily routines.
For residents, it is one more part of what makes Kentfield distinctive: a community where schools, open space, established neighborhoods and longtime local institutions are woven closely together.
Thinking about buying or selling in Kentfield or elsewhere in Marin? I’m always happy to share my perspective on the neighborhoods, homes and local details that make a difference.
