COM Foundation News – September 2024

Congratulations class of 2024!

COM Foundation
2023-2024 Year In Review

“Your investment in my education has inspired me to strive for greatness and has provided me with the means to pursue my dreams. . . . I will always remember the difference you have made in my life.”

                                                                                                                              -Miranda R., Scholarship Recipient     

With September comes the excitement of a brand-new academic school year. At the same time, we at COM Foundation look back at the 2023-2024 school year with pride and gratitude. First, we are so very proud of the accomplishments of COM’s students—of the determination they show to press forward relentlessly toward their goals, of the often hard-won successes they achieve, and of the amazing milestones we celebrate with them. Second, we are extremely grateful for all the ways in which you, our partners in their education, seek to support our students and to generously meet their needs both in the classroom and outside of it. We’d like you to join us in a look back as we close the books on the 2023-2024 school year.

A message from

COM Foundation's President ...

Summer Chapman, President

Summer Chapman, President

College of the Mainland Foundation

On behalf of my fellow Board Members, I want to thank the many private and corporate donors to the College of the Mainland Foundation for entrusting the board with their generous donations. This responsibility is not taken lightly, and we are proud that every decision made by the board is in good faith and adherence to our mission to generate resources that support the students of the College of the Mainland.

I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for what we have accomplished through the College of the Mainland Foundation. This year has been a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience in the face of change, and unwavering commitment to the students & community.

Significant Achievements
2023-2024 has been remarkable for us. We have successfully awarded $638,393 in scholarships and $56,306 in Student Emergency Aid. These achievements would not have been possible without generosity from private and corporate donors totaling $1.1million to date.

Facing Challenges with Resilience
This year has not been without its challenges. We are currently navigating the departure of our longtime executive director, Lisa Watson.  However, we are blessed to have interim director, Anita Garcia, to guide the board during this transition and throughout our search for a new director. The evolving social, economic, and environmental landscapes continuously weigh on our minds. Yet, through it all, we have remained steadfast in our vision to ensure that all students achieve their highest potential and that COM faculty and staff members have the resources to educate in the most effective manner. Our ability to navigate these challenges speaks to the resilience of our board, foundation staff, and the strength of our partnerships.

Looking Ahead
As we move into 2025, our focus will remain on deepening our impact and expanding our reach. We will continue to innovate, seeking new ways to address the pressing issues of our time. Our commitment to student success and workforce readiness will drive us forward, ensuring that we make a lasting difference in the lives of the students and communities we serve.

A Heartfelt Thank You
None of this would be possible without the incredible support from each of you—our donors, partners, and friends. Your belief in our mission and your continued support inspires us to push boundaries and strive for excellence in all that we do.

In closing, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our Board of Directors, our dedicated foundation staff, and all our generous donors and supporters. Together, we have achieved so much, and together, we will continue to champion the College of the Mainland through the communities it serves.

Here’s to making a difference, and to the exciting journey that lies ahead.

With warmest regards,

No matter how you choose to give, your generosity will directly benefit College of the Mainland students.

COM Foundation News – June 2024

Highlights:
-First cohort completes the Mitchell Chuoke Jr. Plumbing Program.
-Highlights from the Student-Donor Scholarship Luncheon.
-Thank you to COMPeers.

Student Donor Luncheon 2024

On April 11th, COM Foundation hosted their annual Student Donor Luncheon. This event is a great opportunity for students and donors to meet, enjoy lunch, and hear from guest speakers. This year’s speakers included Chris DeVries (COM Foundation Board of Directors, Vice President) and Adrian Castaneda (Collegiate High School student and COM Foundation multi-scholarship recipient). Adrian has received 3 different scholarships throughout his time at COM. He will graduate on May 11, 2024, with an Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration-Management.

COM Foundation News – April 2024

Highlights:
-2024 Educate a Woman “Laughs for Lunch” fundraising luncheon.
-Thank you from COM Foundation scholarship recipients and graduates.
-Thank you to Linde.
-Welcome to new donors, sponsors and partners.

Learn more about College of the Mainland and its offerings on the school’s main website.