The Network of California Community College Foundations proudly announces the selection of the Rotary Foundation and the California Rotary Districts as the recipients of the 2023 Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year Award. This honor is presented annually to individuals, corporations, or nonprofit organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to philanthropy and serve as inspiring models for supporting California Community Colleges.
Through over 110 years of passionate service, the Rotary Foundation and its Districts have consistently supported sustainable projects within their communities, including providing over $4.4 million in financial assistance to California community colleges and students. In recognition of these remarkable contributions, a virtual award ceremony will be held on April 3, 2024. Community college representatives, supporters, and individuals in the philanthropic space, are invited to join. Members of the media are also invited to attend and cover the event.
Rotary’s support has significantly benefited California community college students by providing scholarships, internships, and vital support services, enabling thousands of students to pursue their educational goals. One such beneficiary, Grossmont College student Dima H., exemplifies the transformative impact of Rotary’s philanthropy.
Dima, who received the La Mesa Rotary and Ivan Nolan Scholarship, is currently studying Human Biology with a future career goal of becoming a Pediatric Oncologist. She shared, “the scholarship has not only provided me with financial assistance but has also inspired me to strive for excellence and give back to my community. I am determined to make a positive impact on the lives of others.”
“Rotary clubs in California are proud to work with their local community colleges to provide financial assistance to students seeking higher education. Supporting individuals who are pursuing transfer or
career pathways is at the core of our mission and it is our honor to help them on their individual journey,” said Marta Golding Brown, Rotary 5240 District Governor.
“The Rotary Foundation, the Rotary Clubs of California, and their members have been one of the California Community Colleges most long-standing, dedicated, and generous donors. The Network of California Community College Foundations is proud to present them as this year’s Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year, in recognition of their support to local colleges which has inspired greater futures for our students and greatly transformed the communities they serve,” said Elizabeth McCann, President of the Network of California Community College Foundation.
The Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year award is presented annually by the Network of California Community College Foundations, an association of local college foundation professionals dedicated to philanthropy. It is named after Mr. Bernard Osher for his history-making commitment to community college students in 2008. The Bernard Osher Foundation pledged an unprecedented lead gift of $25 million and committed additional match dollars, which ultimately resulted in the establishment of the $76 million California Community Colleges Scholarship Endowment for student scholarships.
For more information about the 2023 Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year event, visit here.
