PC Foundation Awards Over $300,000 in Scholarships to Students

The future is looking bright for Porterville College students following a night of celebration, gratitude, and historic milestones.

On Friday, April 17, 2026, the Porterville College Foundation hosted the 57th Annual Scholarship & Awards Ceremony, distributing a staggering $301,700 in scholarships to 165 deserving students.

This year’s awards represented 254 individual scholarships, made possible by the generosity of 106 donors—a group comprised of dedicated community members, faculty, staff, alumni, and local organizations.

A Legacy of Giving

The impact of this year’s ceremony goes beyond a single night. With this latest round of funding, the PC Foundation has officially surpassed $4 million in total student support awarded over the past two decades. To put that growth into perspective, annual scholarship support has nearly tripled over the last 20 years, rising from approximately $127,000 in 2004 to more than $350,000 today. (An additional $50,000 is slated for distribution in the coming weeks through the PC First Scholarship Program).

Honoring Tradition

While the dollar amounts have grown, the heart of the ceremony remains the same. The event has been a campus staple since 1970, when it was founded by Science Professor Burl Cuffman. What started as a modest gathering has blossomed into a premier community event that bridges the gap between local donors and the next generation of professionals.

The enduring nature of this support is best seen in long-standing partnerships. Organizations like the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the W.P. Bartlett Trust, which helped establish the program in its early years, continue to provide vital funding to students today.

The Road Ahead

For the 165 recipients, these funds represent more than just financial relief—they are a vote of confidence from the Porterville community. Whether these students are heading into healthcare, public service, technology, or the arts, they carry with them the legacy of a foundation committed to "expanded access to higher education."

The Porterville College Foundation extends its deepest thanks to the donors who make these dreams a reality. As we celebrate this $4 million milestone, we look forward to the next two decades of empowering our students to succeed.

For more information on how to support student success or to view a list of scholarship opportunities, please visit www.portervillecollegefoundation.org.