Scholarship support continues playing a critical role for community college students facing rising education and living costs across the San Gabriel Valley. At Río Hondo College, donors, faculty, and community leaders gathered May 8 to celebrate students whose academic goals received a boost through scholarship funding.
The Río Hondo Scholarship Reception Honors Students event recognized 52 students who collectively received 72 scholarship awards totaling $48,700 through the Río Hondo College Foundation.
Held on the Río Hondo College campus, the annual reception brought together scholarship recipients, family members, faculty, staff, and local supporters to recognize student achievement and community investment in higher education.
College leaders said scholarship assistance often helps students remain enrolled, reduce work hours, purchase educational materials, and continue pursuing transfer opportunities and career goals.
“This celebration is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together in support of students,” Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss said in remarks published by the Río Hondo College Foundation.
Río Hondo Scholarship Reception Honors Students And Donors
The Río Hondo College Foundation, established in 1992, raises money for scholarships, student support services, and campus programs designed to improve educational access.
Foundation Board President Max A. Ordonez thanked donors for their continued support during the reception. According to remarks published by the Foundation, Ordonez said scholarship contributions represent encouragement and investment in students’ futures beyond financial assistance alone.
Student speaker Rachel Garcia shared her personal journey during the event. Garcia, a first-generation college student, single mother, and displaced homemaker, spoke about returning to school after years of uncertainty.
Garcia credited encouragement from mentors, family members, and the College community with helping her continue pursuing higher education. She plans to transfer this fall to California State University, Los Angeles.
“Where you start truly does not define what you finish,” Garcia said during the reception.
Board of Trustees President Rosaelva Lomeli attended the event alongside Vice President Moya-Miller, Acting Vice President Alicia Kruizenga, and Associate Vice President Caroline Durdella.
Community colleges throughout California continue seeing increased demand for scholarships and financial assistance programs as students balance tuition, transportation, housing, and childcare expenses.
Student Success Remains Foundation Mission
The reception concluded with scholarship recipients receiving certificates recognizing academic achievement, perseverance, and educational promise.
College officials said the annual event reflects Río Hondo College’s continuing commitment to equity, educational opportunity, and long-term student success throughout the region.
The Foundation’s work remains closely tied to the College’s broader mission of helping local students complete degrees, transfer to four-year universities, and pursue career advancement opportunities.
More information about scholarship opportunities and donor support programs is available through the Río Hondo College Foundation website.
Portions of this story were based on information provided by the Río Hondo College Foundation. Photo courtesy of the Río Hondo College Foundation.
