The College of the Canyons (COC) Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit auxiliary organization formed to generate philanthropic support for College of the Canyons. The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors who are an enthusiastic and committed group of volunteer business and community leaders who donate their time, resources and energy to positively impact educational access in the Santa Clarita Valley. The board's mission is to provide an affordable and accessible college education for all having the desire to succeed.
Like other educational institutions, our college needs charitable gifts to endow scholarships and to support educational programs and capital improvements, which can mean the difference between ordinary and extraordinary programs and services for student success. Through annual giving, special events and scholarship programs, the foundation provides the college with crucial private financial resources.
Contributions of cash, real estate, bequests and other legacy gifts enable the college to provide specialized educational programs and perform beyond the achievement level that tax dollars alone can support. Each year, the foundation grants funds to support college programs. It has granted as much as $2.9 million back to the college.
The Foundation encourages inquiries about the wide variety of college programs and opportunities supported through generous donations.
Making a Difference
Established in 1987, the Foundation is designated to receive gifts for the college from individuals, corporations and foundations. Just as it is with other educational institutions, our college needs charitable gifts to endow scholarships and support educational programs and capital improvements that can mean the difference between ordinary and extraordinary programs and services for student success.
Maintaining Excellence
It is vital that we maintain our high standard of excellence in education. California's community colleges educate 73 percent of the state's citizens, yet they receive only 11 percent of the per-student state dollars for education. Clearly, your generosity has never been more important. With the help of our contributors and our continued success, College of the Canyons will remain a pillar in the community, educating everyone interested in learning, and supporting programs that enhance the education process.
Our Mission
The College of the Canyons Foundation provides financial support for the Santa Clarita Community College District. This allows College of the Canyons to perform beyond the achievement level that tax dollars alone can support and to strive for the highest levels of excellence in teaching, scholarship, vocational training and innovation. The Foundation believes that public educational institutions and private enterprise must work together to provide an affordable and accessible college education for all who have the desire to succeed.
Our Foundation Has
- Raised more than $23 million cumulatively over the last 25 years to assist programs and students.
- Established more than 200 scholarships that are awarded annually.
- Generated more than $5 million toward the University Center and Culinary Arts Capital Campaigns.
- Raised more than $1 million for endowed scholarships through the Osher initiative.
- Granted more than $255,000 over the last five years in mini grants to fund innovative projects and academic programs.
- Established the Alumni and Athletic Halls of Fame.
- Established endowments for the Arts, the Library and the Athletic Track.
- Provided funding to build the Cougar Den outdoor meeting area adjacent to the stadium.
- Co-founded the Santa Clarita Valley Nonprofit Leadership Network that serves more than 100 local nonprofit organizations and agencies.
Our College
College of the Canyons,one of the fastest-growing community colleges in the nation, has served the Santa Clarita Valley for more than 50 years. It is a vital, enduring, cultural, educational, and economic force in the region. It boasts modern facilities, an outstanding and enthusiastic staff, innovative programs, and advanced technological solutions. Those who are involved with the college and those who will enter its doors in the future will find unlimited opportunities to be innovative and entrepreneurial and to set the stage for things to come.
Did You Know?
College of the Canyons...
Celebrated the largest graduating class in its 45-year history in 2015. The number increased 9 percent over the previous year.
Increased the number of honors graduates (GPA of 3.5 and above) by 14 percent to 308 in 2015.
Is ranked among top 5 in California and No. 1 in Los Angeles County for completion rate by college-prepared students.
Increased the number of courses available to students by 20 percent over 5 years.
Offered more than 100 degree and certificate programs to prepare students for transfer to top 4-year universities or launch high-paying careers.
Is recognized as a statewide leader for offering 18 Associate Degrees for Transfer that provide a seamless pathway to California State University campuses.
Served 17,344 students during the fall 2014 semester.
Awarded 2,339 advanced degrees through the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center since January 2002.
Generated $20.2 million in grant and contract education revenue over the past 10 years through its Economic Development Division.