The North Long Beach Higher Education Center, a collaborative effort between Long Beach City College (LBCC) and the City of Long Beach, received a prestigious 2024 Davey Award, Gold Winner, in the category of Outdoor/Environmental Signage & Environmental Graphics for its striking exterior mural depicting life in North Long Beach.

“We’re so proud that the North Long Beach Higher Education Center mural received this important recognition,” said Uduak-Joe Ntuk, LBCC Board of Trustees President. “It reflects the vibrant spirit of North Long Beach and showcases LBCC’s deep commitment to serving and uplifting our community. This artwork symbolizes the incredible synergy that happens when LBCC partners with local nonprofits like the Puente Latino Association on meaningful collaborations.”

“This mural is a powerful reminder to our North Long Beach community that this Center is a place where they can learn, grow, and achieve their dreams,” said Dr. Mike Muñoz, LBCC Superintendent-President. “It’s a symbol of belonging and opportunity, and we’re so proud to see it recognized on an international stage.”

Opened in May 2024, the North Long Beach Higher Education Center was established to expand access to higher education, job training, and valuable resources in technology and business for the North Long Beach community. LBCC partnered with the Puente Latino Association to design a vibrant mural that highlights cherished local landmarks, including Houghton Park, Jordan High School, and the Michelle Obama Library. Hundreds of local residents and LBCC students came together to volunteer their time painting the mural. Spanning the entire west wall of the Center, this stunning artwork has quickly become a beloved landmark in North Long Beach.

“This mural stands as a testament to what a community can achieve when united by purpose and creativity. With the contributions of hundreds of residents and the artistry of talented local artists, it captures the heart and soul of North Long Beach. Puente is deeply honored to have led this extraordinary project, which proves the power of community-driven art to inspire and transform,” said Hilda Gaytan, Executive Director of the Puente Latino Association.

The Davey Awards is an international competition sanctioned by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, and is renowned for celebrating the achievements of “Creative Davids” —small to mid-sized agencies that achieve big results through innovative ideas rather than large budgets.

The stunningly beautiful Gold Davey Award was recently delivered to the LBCC team to celebrate this well-deserved achievement and will be proudly displayed in the President’s Office Suite.

For more information on the mural and the North Long Beach Higher Education Center, visit https://www.lbcc.edu/northlb