This Giving Tuesday, we shine a spotlight on the stories of local philanthropists making a significant impact on Southwestern College (SWC) students through the SWC Foundation. Their diverse paths of giving underline the transformative power of community support.

Lorraine Morgan, Studio Director and Senior Associate at Gensler, engaged through the SWC Cares program, emphasizes the tangible impact of contributions, stating, “Gas and food cards are one of the biggest needs [for students]. We can do something about it. Be generous. Open your hearts. If you can help students financially, it’s a rewarding cause for San Diego and our community.”

Patricia Larkin, a retiree of SWC, stresses the importance of investing in students. “Donating to SWC is a way to directly impact and invest in your own local community, to support our leaders of tomorrow,” she asserts, urging others to “pay it forward.”

Monir Masoud, Manager of Community College Pathways at National University, committed to fostering student success, believes, “Every contribution, big or small, plays a significant role in shaping brighter futures and empowering students to achieve their dreams.” 

Kevin Marshall, a Foundation Board Member, shares a personal connection to SWC. “When I started my own business in 1990, the Southwestern College Small Business Development Center helped me with my business plan,” he reveals. Marshall expresses his passion for helping students with career planning and emphasizes the broad impact of SWC on the community, stating, “So many professionals in the south county got their start of education to create their jobs through Southwestern College like police, fire, medics, teachers, nurses, etc.”

Southwestern College Associated Student Organization members handing out food for Finals Stress Relief Week.
Southwestern College Associated Student Organization members handing out food for Finals Stress Relief Week.

Marshall believes in the transformative power of education and the SWC Foundation’s responsible fiscal management. “Southwestern College is very fiscally responsible with people’s donations, and they stretch the dollar to go a long way in serving our students,” he emphasizes.

In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, these stories demonstrate the profound impact of individual contributions. Join these philanthropists in supporting the SWC Foundation. Your generosity can shape a brighter future for SWC students and contribute to the community’s success. Make a difference today – invest in our students and their future.