Throughout its 87 year history, MJC Alumni have distinguished themselves through their contribution and service. Beginning in 1967, the college has selected a Distinguished Alumni of the Year to represent the accomplishments of the past Alum and the dreams of those in the future. That individual is asked to participate in the commencement ceremony, will be seated on the Dias with the colleges administration and distinguished guests, additionally, they will deliver a personal message to the graduating class. The name of each year's honoree is added to a perpetual plaque that is on display in Founders Hall.
Past Honoree's Include:
| Received Award: | Honoree: | Year Graduated: |
| 1967 | Dorman Commons | 1938 |
| 1968 | James N. Algar | 1931 |
| 1969 | Fay Quisenberry | 1924 |
| 1970 | John Katsuffakis | 1956 |
| 1971 | John P. Witherspoon | 1949 |
| 1972 | James H. Corson | 1925 |
| 1973 | General John S. Patton | 1937 |
| 1974 | John McFall | 1936 |
| 1974 | Dr. Leslie Wilbur | 1943 |
| 1975 | Merle Mensinger | 1923* |
| 1976 | David L. Maggard | 1958 |
| 1977 | Cecil G. Plummer | 1927 |
| 1978 | George Lucas | 1964 |
| 1979 | J. Stephen "Steve" Collins | 1960 |
| No Awards from 1980 - 1996 | ||
| 1997 | Bette Belle Smith | 1938 |
| 1998 | Jeff Moorad | 1976 |
| 1999 | Floyd Zaiger | 1949 |
| 2000 | Jose Luis Carranza | 1974 |
| 2001 | Gerald "Jerry" Coffee | 1954 |
| 2002 | Brice Draper | 1946 |
| 2003 | Bob Cardoza | 1963 |
| 2003 | Melanee Wyatt | 1974 |
| 2004 | Paul and Charlotte Couture | 1937 |
| 2005 | Admiral Richard Ustick | 1953 |
| 2006 | Dr. and Mrs. Robert Beck | 1938 |
| 2007 | Dr. Curtis R. Grant | 1958 |
| 2008 | Erik "Buck" Townsend | 1957 |
| 2009 | Todd Sevick | 1980 |
*First Graduating Class of Modesto Junior College
To nominate a Distinguished Alumni please contact the Foundation Office at
(209) 575-6619
