<- Back to Student Success Stories Celebrating the Ongoing Impact of the DVC Retirees Association November, 2025 April, 2025 Veteran, Alumni, and Leader: Brandon Brookshire By: Charley Daly, Alumni Manager I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Brandon Brookshire, a DVC alum with a fascinating journey from military service to banking and higher education. Brandon's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and community... After serving in the Air Force, Brandon found himself at a crossroads. He came to DVC looking for direction and discovered a supportive veteran’s community that helped him navigate his benefits and pursue his goals. From there, he went on to earn multiple advanced degrees and build a successful career in banking. What struck me most about Brandon's story was his hunger for continuous learning and growth. Even as he balances a demanding career and growing family, he's pursuing an MBA and considering future academic endeavors. His perspective on the balance of work-life, gained from experiences abroad, was particularly insightful. Brandon's journey from struggling veteran to thriving professional and lifelong learner is truly inspiring. His story highlights the lasting impact DVC can have in launching students toward their dreams. I invite you to listen to the full interview to hear Brandon's insights on everything from the banking industry to studying abroad in Barcelona. His story is a powerful reminder of how education can open doors and transform lives. Tune in to DVC Alumn i , where every story inspires the next. Brandon's Journey may just motivate you to take the next step in your own educational and professional development. Listen Here

<- Back to Student Success Stories Celebrating the Ongoing Impact of the DVC Retirees Association August, 2025 April, 2025 11 scholarships. 11 stories of Perseverance, Purpose, and Promise... For decades, the Diablo Valley College Retirees Association has led the way in funding scholarships that help students pursue their educational dreams. Through their sustained generosity, they have consistently provided more scholarship support than any other individual, endowment, or organization at DVC. This year, 11 students received scholarships from the Retirees Association—each one a powerful expression of belief in student potential. These scholarships don’t just pay tuition or cover books. They affirm, they motivate, and they remind students that someone believes in them. Here are just a few of the voices whose lives have been impacted: “DVC and the Umoja community have helped me better understand my identity, history, and the power of education. This scholarship reminds me that my efforts are seen and supported—and encourages me to keep pushing forward.” - Edward “Through my battle with addiction, I found the strength to change and a deep passion to help others do the same. Your support is helping me become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker—so I can show others that transformation is possible.” - Julien “This scholarship has allowed me to dedicate more time to both my studies and my community. As the first in my family to attend college, I am grateful for the opportunity to keep pursuing my dream of becoming a nurse practitioner.” -Justin “I once questioned whether higher education was even within reach. Your generous assistance has lifted a heavy burden and renewed my determination.” - Monique “I'm finally going to be able to grow my education and transfer to a four-year college” -Bruna To the members of the DVC Retirees Association: your legacy grows with every student you uplift. Thank you for continuing to believe in our students—and for making it possible for them to believe in themselves. Let's continue to support our students. Click below to help support our cause! Donate

<- Back to Student Success Stories Student Leadership at DVC: Growing What Lasts April, 2025 April, 2025 Last month, we reflected on the many ways leadership takes root at DVC—through alumni, faculty, coaches, and generous donors whose impact continues to shape lives long after the cap and gown. But as one academic year ends and another begins, it’s fitting to turn our attention to the leaders just beginning to bloom: our students and young alumni. Because at DVC, leadership isn’t just something we celebrate—it’s something we cultivate. And the truest sign of lasting leadership is how well it prepares the next generation to step forward. You can see it in Omar Mohamedali, whose thoughtful leadership as a student organizer, club officer and peer mentor continues to inspire. Omar leads not just through titles, but by listening, encouraging, and creating space for others to grow. It shows in the story of the Gutierrez sisters — Itzel, a recent graduate and new DVC Foundation Board member, and Cindy, a current student with a heart for teaching. Their journey through the Puente Project and Diamante Scholars program reflects a shared commitment to equity, family, and educational opportunity. Together, they represent leadership that is deeply personal and profoundly impactful. Please see more about them in the story below. Monica Hicks , a 2024 graduate, served with clarity and compassion, always focused on lifting others. Her leadership was rooted in service, equity, and inclusion—values that made her the perfect choice for a historic honor. To recognize President Susan E. Lamb’s transformative leadership and enduring impact on Diablo Valley College, the Foundation proudly established the Susan E. Lamb Fellowship—and awarded the inaugural Fellowship to Monica. Monica’s journey, from justice-impacted beginnings to earning her master’s in computer science at Stanford, embodies the very spirit of the Fellowship: resilience, mentorship, and opportunity. The announcement left the room deeply moved—and President Lamb nearly speechless. It was a moment that captured the heart of what makes DVC special: people investing in people. Reflecting on her time at DVC, Monica shared: “The DVC Foundation gave me the opportunity to lead and be heard. And more importantly, it helped me listen.” And then there’s Charles McCoy, whose path through experiential learning and community engagement showed that leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about showing up, following through, and helping others find their way. Charles and Monica returned to campus this spring to speak at our President’s Circle Recognition Breakfast—not as students, but as young alumni ready to lead from the next chapter. As we look ahead to the coming year, we do so with deep gratitude for these emerging leaders. They remind us that the seeds planted at DVC grow into something powerful—not just for themselves, but for the students who will follow. Their stories affirm what we’ve said all along: Leadership at DVC doesn’t fade - it multiplies.

TikTok Student Ambassador Award of $XXX upon project completion Become a TikTok Ambassador for the DVC Foundation! We are looking for a creative student(s) to manage our TikTok account and engage with the campus community and alumni. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on social media marketing experience and build your portfolio. Learn more about the role, time commitment, and the valuable skills you'll develop below. *Up to Student(s) Discretion, but a Possible Content Structure could be: A Day in the Life: Showcasing authentic student experiences. Foundation & Resources: Creatively promoting scholarships, events, and support systems. Campus Culture: Highlighting clubs, sports, and DVC traditions. Educational & Informative: Offering quick tips on financial aid, registration, and career prep. Apply Here First name* Last name* Student email* Phone Why do you want this position?* Link to CV/LinkedIn Apply Learning Objectives 1. Increase Brand Awareness: The primary goal is to build a larger and more active TikTok following for the DVC Foundation. The student will be tasked with creating educational and relatable content that resonates with current DVC students and alumni to grow the account's audience, as well as informative infographics. 2. Drive Student Engagement: The student will be responsible for actively promoting the Foundation's initiatives and support services. This means creating a steady stream of videos that highlight key resources like: Scholarship opportunities Campus events Workshops 3. Gain Real-World Experience (Experiential Learning): A key goal for the student personally is to gain valuable, hands-on experience. Their success in this area will be measured by their ability to complete the learning objectives outlined in their agreement, which they will detail in a final report at the end of the term. <- Back to Projects

The Founder's Oak Society Standing Tall for Student Success What is the Founder’s Oak Society? Have you ever wondered what makes DVC’s commitment to student success so strong? Without a doubt, it’s the dedication and support of the Faculty and Staff of DVC. Within this dedicated group is a special circle of faculty and staff who make ongoing donations to the DVC Foundation to support programs, scholarships, and initiatives that provide essential opportunities for our students. This group is DVC’s Faculty and Staff Founder’s Oak Society. Named after the majestic oak tree that once stood at the heart of our campus, the Founder’s Oak Society embodies strength, growth, and lasting impact. Just as the oak tree offered shade and support for generations, members of the Founder’s Oak Society help build a future of success for DVC students through their ongoing contributions. Why Your Support Matters, and Why Now? We are at a critical moment of growth and opportunity for the DVC Foundation. In recent years, our impact has expanded significantly, allowing us to support more scholarships, student programs, and campus initiatives than ever before. Today, your participation in the Founder’s Oak Society is crucial in ensuring we continue to make timely, impactful, and responsive funding decisions for student success. Your support helps us move beyond reactive fundraising—such as “passing the hat” during emergencies—and enables proactive, sustainable support for student success. Together, we can ensure students have continuous access to the resources they need most. Join the Society Today Oak Roots Level $90/month Building deep, lasting roots of student success. Your support ensures resources for generations to come! Join Through Payroll Donations Here Or... Join Through Online Giving Here Click "Foundation Payroll Deduction Form" All Donations are tax-deductible, straightforward to set up, and profoundly meaningful! Your Impact In Action... Enhancing Emergency Grants In 2024, over $12,000 was given to students facing urgent financial crises. With your support, we aim to provide at least $25,000 annually by 2025, ensuring immediate assistance is always available. Expanding Scholarships We’ve increased scholarship funding by 200%, awarding over $200,000 annually. We’re projecting another 20% increase in 2025, enabling even more students to access critical financial support. Funding Student Success Programs Last year, the Foundation funded over 55 academic and hands-on student success programs, investing directly in opportunities that prepare students for real-world challenges. In 2025, our goal is to provide more than $100,000 toward these transformative initiatives. Investing in Staff Development From funding the President’s Classified Exemplary Service Award to providing professional development resources, the Foundation is committed to filling the gaps and supporting DVC’s dedicated faculty and staff. Strengthening Alumni Connections In its second successful year, the DVC Alumni Association, funded by the Foundation, continues to provide critical mentorship, networking, and community-building opportunities. The Legacy You Leave Together, let’s stand tall for student success! In the early 1950s, a majestic oak tree was left standing amid the bulldozers as the DVC campus took shape. For decades, Founder’s Oak served as a symbol of community, strength, and resilience—offering shade and shelter to generations of students and staff. Though storms and age eventually took the tree, its spirit continues through the generosity of our Founder’s Oak Society members. Your ongoing support ensures that the legacy of Founder’s Oak lives on, providing immediate assistance to students, funding meaningful programs, and fostering a campus environment where every student can thrive.

<- Back to Student Success Stories A Message from Jim Blair, Executive Director at the DVC Foundation November, 2025 April, 2025 Dear Veterans, Thirty-six years ago, I was discharged from the United States Army and landed at Diablo Valley College. Those who've never served won't know the adjustment needed between military and civilian life. From a very regimented life of near constant work with little time off, I had landed in a world where self-determination and leisure time were the new reality. This was the late 1980s, and while I didn't face the poor reception our Vietnam veterans received, there weren't any celebrations around my return to the civilian world. I didn't expect or need any. However, there was also very little support for my transition back to the world. On the campus, I was expected to find my own way. After years of being told what to do, this was difficult. Now, the life on campus for returning veterans is much different, and it should be. After two decades of nearly constant conflict, our newer veteran students land at the college and have a considerable amount of support services. With those services, I can report that they are some of the highest performing students on campus and often transfer to elite colleges when they leave here. I want to take this Veterans Day to thank all of our donors because without you, we would not be able to support our student veterans as they make their return to the civilian world. It's because of people like you that we've been able to create the services that our veterans deserve after they complete their service to our country. We're now building out a new space for veterans on campus, and your continued support of these programs will ensure that we can create a space on campus that allows them to study and receive the support services they deserve. If you have a desire to assist with this buildout, please contact Thom Martin in the Foundation office, and he will work with you to maximize your impact. To our donors that have served, I wish you the best this Veterans Day. Jim Blair Executive Director Diablo Valley College Foundation Donate

<- Back to Student Success Stories Beyond the Names: Honoring the Legacy of Michael “Mickey” Ganitch November 2025 April, 2025 Each year, the DVC Foundation has the profound honor of awarding two scholarships in the name of Michael “Mickey” Ganitch — a sailor whose life reflected courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to service. On Veterans Day, as we pause to honor all who have served, we shine a special light on the story behind this remarkable scholarship and the impact it continues to make for DVC’s student veterans. A Legacy Born in Extraordinary Moments Mickey Ganitch enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 21. By the fall of 1941, he was serving aboard the USS Pennsylvania, the flagship of the Pacific Fleet — and playing on the ship’s football team. On the morning of December 7, 1941, Mickey and his teammates were suited up for what was supposed to be the Navy’s own “Super Bowl,” a championship game against the USS Arizona. Instead, as the first bombs fell on Pearl Harbor, Mickey raced to his battle station still wearing his football pads, climbing into the crow’s nest to serve as lookout during the opening minutes of the attack. It was an almost unbelievable moment — part courage, part instinct, and unmistakably American. Mickey went on to serve throughout World War II, remained aboard the Pennsylvania during its major Pacific operations, later served during the Korean War, and ultimately retired as a Senior Chief Quartermaster. In the decades that followed, he continued serving his community through veterans’ organizations, church leadership, volunteer service, and acts of quiet compassion. Mickey passed away in 2022 at the age of 102, leaving behind a legacy defined by service, generosity, and heart. A Scholarship That Inspires New Generations Today, the Michael (Mickey) Ganitch Memorial Scholarship honors that legacy by supporting DVC student veterans who, like Mickey, have dedicated themselves to service and to strengthening their communities. “Receiving a scholarship named after a true hero means more than I can express. As a veteran returning to college, this support lifts a huge weight and allows me to focus fully on my education. It encourages me to keep striving, give back, and live up to the values Mickey embodied.” -Clark Kevin Santiago, Scholarship Recipient Honoring Mickey. Supporting Veterans. Strengthening Futures We are honored to carry Mickey’s story forward, We are grateful for the student veterans who continue their education at DVC with determination and purpose, And we are proud that this scholarship — rooted in a moment of history and a lifetime of service — continues to make a difference in their lives. Watch Mickey's Pearl Harbor Story Here Donate to the Mickey Ganitch All Veteran's Memorial Scholarship Donate

See Planned Giving Leave a Legacy Beyond Your Life

DVCF Donor Survey 1. What motivates you to donate to charitable causes in general? Personal values Connection to the cause Supporting education/community development Tax benefits Other 2. Why do you choose to donate to the Diablo Valley College Foundation specifically? 3. How did you first get involved with our foundation? 4. Do you donate to other organizations? If so, which ones and why? 5. What are your top priorities or values when selecting organizations to support? 6. How do you prefer to engage with the nonprofits you support? 7. In what ways do you feel our organization can improve to better serve your charitable giving goals? 8. Would you be open to volunteering or getting more involved beyond financial support? 9. Is there anything else you would like to share about your giving experience with us? Thank you for your time and insights! Your feedback is invaluable in helping us better understand and serve our donor community as we work to make a greater impact on the students and programs you support. Submit

Reconnect with the vibrant DVC alumni network! Join us for events, mentorship, and more. Discover the power of DVC alumni connections. Join us for vibrant reunions, career-boosting networking events, and a variety of both on-campus and virtual gatherings. Whether through mentorship programs or regional meetups, DVC connections are always within reach. Best of all, joining takes just a click, offering a world of opportunity and connection with no fees attached. Since 1949, DVC has been a starting point for over 1.5 million stories, including yours. Now, the revitalized Alumni Association aims not only to preserve those stories but to enrich them, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and dreams fulfilled. Don't hesitate; rekindle your DVC connection and become part of something bigger today. Join the all-new DVC Alumni Association and connect with fellow alumni now. Join Now! Step back into the heart of Pleasant Hill, CA, where your academic journey at Diablo Valley College (DVC) first began. The DVC Alumni Association beckons you to reconnect not only with the campus that witnessed your growth but also with a community of former peers who shared your journey. It's a bridge between past and present, students and alumni, aspirations and achievements.

Get In Touch 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 DVCFoundation@dvc.edu 925-969-2028 Name Email Phone Address Subject Message Submit Thanks for submitting!

Board Membership Without our board we cannot succeed. The work we do as a foundation is only possible with the strategic support we receive from our board leaders. Each year members of the community dedicate unpaid time to direct the work of the foundation and ensure that we are fulfilling our mission to support the students and programs of Diablo Valley College. The broader the base of our board leaders, the better equipped we are to ensure that the entire community is represented in the work we do. Please consider submitting a board application and joining us in this work. Let’s Work Together First name* Last name Email Phone Multi-line address Country/Region Address City Zip / Postal code Company name Position How did you hear about the DVC Foundation?* Are you an alum? If so, when did you attend and what was your focus?* Have you served on a nonprofit board before? If yes, which one(s)?* Why would you like to serve on the DVC Foundation board?* Beyond the board fiduciary responsibilities, all board members are expected to lead giving with membership to the President's Circle ($1,000 minimum gift each year.) Are you willing to commit to this requirement?* Yes No Regular meeting participation is necessary for the Foundation to succeed in it's mission to serve the students and programs at DVC. Are you willing to commit to attending monthly board and committee meetings? * Yes No Submit