Skagit Valley College Foundation celebrates more than $1.1 million in scholarships at its annual reception May 30
The Skagit Valley College Foundation hosted its annual Scholarship Breakfast on Friday, May 30 at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge. The inspiring morning event celebrated the incredible generosity of its donors and honored SVC students who were awarded more than $1.1 million in scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The Foundation successfully completed its annual scholarship cycle, awarding 500 scholarships totaling over $1.1 million to students across a wide range of academic and workforce programs.
“We were thrilled to celebrate our students and the transformational generosity of our donors and partners who believe in their potential,” said Kathleen Petrzelka, executive director of the SVC Foundation. “As the college approaches its centennial celebration in 2026, our donors continue to show up in tremendously powerful ways.”
This year’s event was record-breaking, with 400 attendees gathering to honor student achievement and community impact. For the first time in the event’s history, the Sidney S. McIntyre Jr. SVC Memorial Scholarships were presented during the celebration, establishing a new tradition during a year that also marked the 25th anniversary of the McIntyre Scholarship.
One of the morning’s featured speakers was Dr. Garrett Kelly, faculty member and department chair of SVC’s engineering department, who received the McIntyre Scholarship in 2008. Kelly shared his inspiring journey from scholarship recipient to educator, illustrating the long-term impact of donor support and student opportunity.
“The Sidney S. McIntyre Jr. Scholarship has changed countless lives over the past 25 years,” said Petrzelka. “Incorporating its presentation into this annual event made the moment even more special.”
In addition, the Foundation recognized two extraordinary families, William and Kathleen Massey, and Kenneth and Elizabeth Cave, who have each supported SVC students for more than 30 years.
“Through their generous giving, these families have helped hundreds of students achieve their educational goals and build brighter futures,” said Petrzelka.
The SVC Foundation Board of Governors, the SVC Board of Trustees, and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community were proud sponsors of this year’s breakfast. Their dedicated support continues to help open doors to education for students throughout the region.
The event brought together scholarship recipients, their families, donors, SVC leadership, faculty, staff, and community partners. Attendees heard powerful stories that highlighted the life-changing impact of scholarships and community support.
To learn more or support scholarships at SVC, please contact Kathleen Petrzelka, executive director of the SVC Foundation, at kathleen.petrzelka@skagit.edu or 360.416.3229.
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Skagit Valley College is making a difference throughout Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties by providing access to higher education for all who seek a better future. Part of what makes our college special is that we are deeply committed to equity in access, achievement, and community. Whether you fare training for a new job, beginning your college experience, finishing the degree you started, adding English language skills, or pursuing a high school credential, Skagit Valley College welcomes you.