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August News from Skagit Valley College

Skagit Valley College Foundation awards $729,000 in scholarships at annual banquet
Thanks to our incredible community of donors, the Skagit Valley College Foundation awarded $729,000 in scholarships to 285 local students at our annual foundation scholarship banquet in May.

The banquet was held at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge, drawing a crowd of 294 attendees, including donors, students, foundation representatives, and SVC faculty and staff.

 

Butch Laurion, Master Chief Petty Officer USN (Ret) and generous SVC supporter, says his experience at community college is why he supports the SVC Foundation today.

 

“As a 17-year-old high school dropout, I joined the U.S. Navy and was able to finish high school and go on to get a two-year degree at a local community college,” said Laurion. “I’m proud to say that I completed five advanced degrees during my career (AS, AA, BS, MBA, PhD).”

 

“Without the helping hand of that first community college, this would not have been possible,” added Laurion. “This is why my wife and I are firm supporters of the community college system.”

 

Since 1978, SVC Foundation has been focused on advancing the mission, vision and strategic plan of Skagit Valley College, creating greater opportunities for all students, transforming lives, the workforce, and our communities. SVC Foundation is entrusted with managing an $18 million endowment and raises over $1 million each year to support SVC students and programs.

 

Special thanks to WECU and RMC Architects for their sponsorship!

Toyota Lift Northwest donates forklift to Skagit Valley College's Diesel Power Technology Program
Toyota Lift Northwest, a forklift dealership from Kent, Wash. has donated a $30,000 Electric Forklift and a 208 3-phase charger to the Skagit Valley College Diesel Power Technology program.

 

This dealership’s generosity and dedication to partnering with colleges in the northwest region will allow students in the SVC program to study electric forklifts and grants them access to a new domain of mechanics beyond what was previously available.

“This training opens new doors for students, paving the way for job opportunities that go beyond the traditional scope of diesel-focused education,” said Aaron Klesick, instructor and department head of the SVC automotive technology program. “Thanks to the generous donation from Toyota Lift Northwest, diesel and automotive students have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge forklift technology and prepare to tackle the electric and hydraulic systems of the future.”

 

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This summer, Skagit Valley College launched a new program for first-generation, underrepresented graduating seniors this summer. Summer Bridge – Pa’ delante – is a free program and supports graduating seniors attending SVC this fall. The program is underway and runs through August 31, 2023.

 

“The summer bridge program presents an amazing opportunity for first-generation college students to receive additional support and guidance as they transition from high school to higher education,” said Director of Student Equity and Inclusion, Rick Flores.

 

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SAVE THE DATE

Skagit Valley College
21st Annual Athletic Auction
Saturday February 3, 2024 at Swinomish Casino & Lodge

 

Interested in sponsoring? Please reach out to Kathleen Petrzelka:

(360) 416-3229 Kathleen.Petrzelka@skagit.edu

 

SVC's Events Calendar
Stay up to date with everything happening at SVC: performing arts, athletics, community conversations, and more!

 

We invite you to visit SVC and see the amazing programming happening throughout SVC campuses, stay up to date by visiting here: SVC Events Calendar

Planned Giving: Ever thought about including SVC in your will or trust? You can find more information on our Legacy Giving page, or contact Kathleen Petrzelka at (360) 416-3229 or Kathleen.Petrzelka@skagit.edu. Leave a legacy at SVC that will support students for generations to come! 
Interesting in supporting the work of the SVC Foundation? Give Now!
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