Holy Cross College Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, Inc. (HCC) traces its beginnings to December 1946, when it was founded as Holy Cross Academy through the vision and dedication of the late Rt. Rev. Msgr. Fernando C. Lansangan, then Parish Priest of the Parish of St. Rose of Lima in Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija.

Recognizing the need for accessible Catholic education for the youth of Sta. Rosa and neighboring municipalities, Msgr. Lansangan founded the school with a simple yet profound mission: to nurture young minds through quality education rooted in Christian values, discipline, and service.

The academy initially opened as a secondary school with only two first-year classes, providing local families the opportunity to educate their children without having to travel to distant institutions.

Leadership through the years played a vital role in shaping the school's identity. The first principal, Mr. Francisco San Vicente (1946–1948), was succeeded by Mr. Martin L. Peralta, Mr. Demetrio Fajardo, Mr. Julio Saulo, Ms. Cresencia L. Dayao, and Ms. Julia C. Talplacido — each contributing significantly to the institution's growth and stability.

The school's early success was made possible through the unwavering support of the people of Sta. Rosa and the dedication of its pioneering educators and incorporators: Ms. Cresencia L. Dayao, Mr. Simon Romero, Ms. Salud Dayao, Ms. Felisa C. Germino, Ms. Genoveva M. Solitario, Ms. Feliciana Cruz, and Mrs. Angelina De Leon Peralta, whose collective efforts laid the foundation for what would become one of Nueva Ecija's enduring educational institutions.

Following the passing of Msgr. Lansangan, the stewardship of the school was entrusted to committed lay leaders and a dedicated Board of Directors who faithfully upheld the founder's vision of providing quality Catholic education.

As Sta. Rosa developed into a thriving commercial and agricultural center during the 1980s, the demand for higher education likewise increased. Responding to this need, the Board of Directors pursued the establishment of collegiate programs.

During School Year 1982–1983, the school received permission to offer a post-secondary Junior Secretarial course. Soon after, degree programs in Education and Commerce were approved, marking a historic milestone as Holy Cross Academy officially became Holy Cross College.

The College continued to broaden its academic offerings in the years that followed. Programs in Bachelor of Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science in Commerce, and later Bachelor of Science in Computer Science equipped students with the knowledge and competencies demanded by an evolving society. The opening of a complete elementary department in 1984 further strengthened the institution's commitment to providing quality education across all levels while serving as a laboratory school for future educators.

The dawn of the 21st century ushered in another era of transformation. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Raquel T. Sta. Ines, who assumed the role of Lady Director and Dean of the College, Holy Cross College embraced modernization while remaining faithful to its Catholic identity.

In 2004, new academic programs — including Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Associate in Computer Technology, and Bachelor of Science in Criminology — were introduced in response to the changing demands of industry and society. These programs opened greater opportunities for young learners to pursue meaningful careers both in the Philippines and abroad.

Throughout its history, Holy Cross College has remained steadfast in its commitment to holistic education. Beyond academic instruction, the institution has continuously nurtured the intellectual, spiritual, moral, social, and physical development of its students.

Guided by its mission of forming competent professionals with deep faith, integrity, and compassion, HCC has produced generations of graduates who have become educators, business leaders, information technology professionals, public servants, entrepreneurs, hospitality experts, law enforcement officers, and community builders across the country and around the world.

Today, as Holy Cross College Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, Inc. celebrates its 80th Founding Anniversary, the institution proudly honors eight decades of unwavering commitment to educational excellence, faith formation, and community service.

What began as a humble academy in 1946 has flourished into a respected institution of learning, shaped by visionary leadership, dedicated educators, supportive stakeholders, and thousands of alumni who continue to exemplify the values instilled by their Alma Mater.

As HCC embarks on its next chapter, it remains inspired by the legacy of its founder and strengthened by the dedication of its administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners. With gratitude for the past and confidence in the future, Holy Cross College continues its mission of transforming lives through education.