3 singers
A speaker addresses the crowd
Chancellor Diana Rodriguez voting in the gala auction
A group photo of Dr. Linda Fontanilla and Olivia Rosas
Group photo with San Bernardino mayor Helen Tran


On March 15, San Bernardino Valley College celebrated its 98th year of supporting student success with a record-breaking fundraising effort to increase the SBVC Foundation’s capacity to award student scholarships. Showcasing the campus’s state-of-the-art Kinesiology & Athletics Complex in a truly special evening of dining, entertainment, and donation opportunities, the 98th “Taking Flight: Gala raised over $247,000 in combined proceeds from event sponsors, a live auction and ticket sales - the highest amount ever raised in a single fundraising effort on campus.

A total of 40 corporate sponsors contributed the largest share of the proceeds, with Amazon contributing the gold sponsorship; Stater Brothers Charities and KVCR the silver; IEHP, SBCUSD, SBCCD, SafeworkCM, SBVC Associated Student Government, and the SBVC President’s Office the bronze; and Teamsters Local 1932 and the San Bernardino International Airport Authority contributed the underwriter sponsorships. The entirety of the gala's net proceeds will be used for awarding scholarships and other assistance to students at San Bernardino Valley College.

Throughout the evening, SBVC student performers captivated the audience with musical numbers echoing the college’s annual theme of "Taking Flight," while distinguished alumnus Dexter Thomas took to the stage with his jazz ensemble, The Brass Brothers, adding to the evening's unforgettable ambience. SBVC’s interim president, Dr. Linda Fontanilla opened the event with an homage to the enduring partnerships that have driven SBVC's growth and success over close to a century, emphasizing the college's vital role as a driver of the regional economy through its addition of a vast network of over 850,000 alumni to the local and global economy.

Describing the night as an unequivocal triumph, SBVC Foundation Director Michael Layne extended heartfelt appreciation to the college’s community partners and stakeholders. “Thank you for igniting hope and empowering possibilities,” Layne said. “This gala truly stands as a testament to the power of our community and our shared commitment to higher education. These donations pave the way for countless students to pursue their dreams and shape brighter futures.”