This work illuminates the founding and brief existence of Colegio Cesar Chavez , founded in the Pacific Northwest in 1973. The work is set within a national and regional context. Colegio Cesar Chavez holds a unique niche in Chicano social and educational history, due to its strong Chicano philosophical roots, alternative educational model, and geographical location. The work highlights the socio-political milieu and issues contributing to the rise and demise of this bold Chicano educational experiment. The history of Colegio Cesar Chavez tells the story of a Chicano struggle for educational and self determination.

Dedication; Preface; List of Figures; 1. Introduction; Description of Study; Notes; 2. Social and Historical Context; The Chicano Movement; Watershed Period for Higher Education; Innovation; The Quest for Equal Opportunity; Notes; 3. How It All Began; Background; Notes; 4. A Collective Dream Realized The Birth of Colegio Cesar Chavez; Founders; Institutional Mission and Philosophy; Curriculum; Administration; Faculty; Students and Community; Summary; Notes; 5. Fading Dreams and Hope: Colegio's Decline and Demise; A Lack of Financial Base; Colegio's Legal Battles; Internal Politics and Conflict; Enrollment; Leadership; A Non-traditional Institution; National Trends; Summary; Notes; 6. Conclusions and Insights for Chicano College Promoters; Conclusion: Was Colegio Doomed to Fail?; Insights to Future Promoters; Concluding Remarks; Notes; Appendices; A. Research Tools and Methodology; Interview Consent Form; Bibliography; Index.