Ventura College Foundation Honors "Pirates of Distinction," Launches Fundraising Campaign

VENTURA, Calif. - Feb. 5, 2026 - PRLog -- The Ventura College Foundation will hold a "Celebration of Success" on February 11 at the outdoor stage on the Ventura College Campus from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. to honor the inaugural class of the "Pirates of Distinction" and the official launch of the Foundation's "Invest in Success" fundraising campaign to support the Basic Needs Centers and VC Promise Program. The public is invited.

Among the 14 community members honored as "Pirates of Distinction" for their long-standing service and contributions to the Ventura College community are Dr. Oscar Cobian and Felicia Dueňas, John Hammer, Dr. Ruth Hemming, Rob van Nieuwburg and Toyota, Richard Taylor and Lester Tong. Pirates of Distinction honored posthumously are David Bianco, Mary Guthrie, Myra and E.J. Harrison, Mayo De La Rocha, Miriam Schwab, Hon. Colleen Toy White and Helen Yunker.

Invest in Success (https://venturacollegefoundation.org/invest-in-success/) aims to raise donations to fund student support initiatives designed to remove financial barriers, allowing students to focus on their academic success and pursue their professional goals.

"Our Pirates of Distinction have touched the lives of thousands of students over the years," says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation's executive director. "Their actions and generosity have enabled young people to complete their education and pursue their career goals."

Funds will support the college's Basic Needs Centers at the Ventura Campus and East Campus, which supports the Santa Clara River Valley, and help cover state funding shortfalls for the Ventura College Promise, which provides two years of tuition-free education for first-time, full-time students.

"The Ventura College Foundation relies on the support of donors so that students can acquire the skills for in-demand, well-paying careers, whether through the college's many accredited programs or by pursuing a four-year degree," says Nicole Kreutz, Ventura College Foundation board chair. "A skilled workforce is critical for Ventura County businesses and the community to continue to grow and thrive."

To learn more about Invest In Success and to donate, go to https://venturacollegefoundation.org/invest-in-success.