Crafton Hills College Foundation Puts Spotlight on Students, Donors at Special Afternoon Reception
Publish Date: Sept. 5, 2022
The Crafton Hills College Foundation held its annual Scholarship Luncheon on Aug 5, to the delight of dozens in attendance.
Held in the historic Crafton Hall, the lively, yearly event is planned as a way for donors to meet the students impacted by their generosity, sometimes for the first time since the awards were announced.
“This is one of my favorite events of the year because it highlights our supporters and our students,” said Donna Ferracone, scholarship chair of the nonprofit. “Each year, we have found this event to be very meaningful for all who attend.”
“For students, it’s an opportunity to understand the story behind their scholarships and meet those individuals who have invested in them,” she continued. “For our sponsors, it’s a chance to connect with the students who are benefitting and share the meaning and purpose associated with their philanthropic support.”
Among the donors who contributed to a myriad of awards were San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Kiwanis Club of Yucaipa Valley and Southern California Edison. Award amounts varied, but each will have an impact on student success because monies provided could help cover tuition costs, book fees and unexpected life expenses.
Take Jose Aaron Rosales, for example. It was during the COVID-19 pandemic that his interest in pursuing a medical degree was sparked and, in the Fall, he’ll transfer to Harvard to make his dreams a reality. His scholarship from Edison will help cover expenses for Rosales and his family to make the trek back East, he shared during the event.
Angellie Cristobal, too, spoke about the impact the scholarships she received will have on her educational journey as she readies to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a degree in education while raising a young daughter. But it was her story that captured the hearts of those in attendance because not only is Cristobal a returning college student, but she found more than education at the Yucaipa-based college - she found a second family.
“Crafton Hills College turned out to be much more than a school to me – it became my home, somewhere where I truly felt like I belonged,” she said. “I may be transferring to a four-year university, but my roots will always be planted at Crafton.”
Other event highlights included a slideshow presentation of each student scholar that played throughout the reception, remarks from current and former Crafton leaders, including past San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Dr. Donald Averill, who thanked attendees that contribute to the Foundation’s efforts, whether financially or through volunteering.
“These scholarships symbolize our community’s faith in our students and in their future contribution to our community and to our world,” said Dr. Phong Nguyen, president of the Foundation, to close out the luncheon. “Thank you to all of our donors and sponsors for supporting our students so that they can pursue their dreams.”
Overall, more than $280,000 in scholarships were awarded this year. Organizers hope to give even more next year. To contribute to the nonprofit’s goals and mission, contact the Director of Institutional Advancement Michelle Riggs by email at mriggs@ craftonhills.edu or by phone at 909-389- 3391.
Since its founding, the CHC Foundation has set out to enhance educational excellence by promoting gifts to support and enhance quality education at the Yucaipa-based community college. Gifts include providing financial assistance to students in need, opportunities for field trips and research conferences, as well as equipment needed for training and programs.
