I recently heard Bill Murray speaking about optimism and taking action and he said, “It’s not about doing the next thing right, it’s about doing the next right thing…as much as life is about doing something well, it is more about actually trying.” This quote embodies the foundation of our plans this past year. We have worked so hard to do the right thing for our students, the college and our community.  Last year we heard some of the most compelling stories of need and successes from our students. We saw increased enrollment and decreased resources and the combination compelled the foundation to make a commitment to do the “Right Thing” and fill as many of the scholarship needs as we could while maintaining grants to support innovative programs and needs at the college. 

There were so many stories, but one that really touched me focused on a student who was working so hard to succeed. As the student began to struggle the faculty noticed and became involved, trying to help. It didn’t take long for them to realize that not only was the student enrolled full-time in a very difficult program, but was also working weekends and homeless. As soon as I heard this story, I reached out to donors and within two days we had arranged a place to stay, emergency funds and additional scholarship money. 

Each year, I am amazed by each of you and your generous outpouring of support for our students and our college. The selflessness shown this past year in supporting students as they strive to achieve their dreams is unprecedented. I have gotten to know many of you over the past several years and your generosity and dedication to our students and the college is steadfast and inspiring. You are all the embodiment of Mr. Murray’s concept of optimism – you continue to do the right thing, seeking outstanding results for others, in short, you try. Your support has allowed me, and so many at the college, to continue to be optimistic during these difficult times.

On behalf of our students and faculty, thank you. I sincerely hope you will help us meet our goals again this year. We have been given the John F. and Marion L. Miller Scholarship Challenge once again and while we are seeing the markets slowly recover student needs and access to college continue to be more important than ever. Last year, with your help, we were able to meet the Miller Scholarship Challenge and together we brought in over $120,000 in new scholarship money. Despite our positive accomplishments, we continue to have to say “no” to qualified applicants, and we’d truly love to see a day when we can support all qualified applicants both financially and with innovative college programs.

I invite you to consider investing in our students and the college and make a gift to the RCC Foundation today. With your help we can build a stronger foundation for our students, our college and the future of our southern Oregon community.

Sincerely,

Jennifer L. Wheatley