Lizbeth Esquer, student speaker from Class of 2025 Mt. San Jacinto College
As a community, supporting students is one of the most effective ways we can strengthen the Inland Empire’s future. For over 80 years, scholarships have been at the heart of our work to create more equitable pathways to education. What began with a bold idea and a simple scholarship fund established by our founder, Charles E. Brouse, has grown into a multi-million dollar effort powered by generous donors and a shared belief that every student deserves the chance to thrive. Today, Charles Brouse’s legacy lives on as we continue to support the dreams and potential of students from every corner of our diverse region.
This year, more than $608,000 in scholarships is helping students attend community colleges, universities, and career programs throughout California and beyond. In the 2025 scholarship season, individual awards ranged from $350 to over $10,000. Recipients are heading to campuses near and far, from the Coachella Valley to the University of Southampton in the U.K.
Many of IECF’s 30+ scholarship funds began as a tribute—a way for families to carry a loved one’s legacy forward by supporting students and their dreams. Roz Taylor created the Robert B. Taylor Foundation Scholarship in honor of her husband to support low-income, underrepresented, or first-generation students attending Riverside City College—where Roz and Bob first met. The Katherine C. Webb Memorial Scholarship Fund upholds the memory of a beloved wife and mother, Katy Webb, who believed college students should not be burdened with overwhelming debt.
This work reflects the people, neighborhoods, and cultures that give the Inland Empire its character and strength.
The impact of financial support is clearly visible through the Mt. San Jacinto College Foundation Fund, which has distributed $454,000 in life-changing scholarships since its inception. Lizbeth Esquer, student speaker from the MSJC Class of 2025, said, “Graduating high school in 2020 was nothing like I had imagined. I was supposed to go to UCSD, but the pandemic changed everything. With my family struggling, I stepped up, working full-time instead. I thought my dreams would have to wait forever, but in 2023, I decided to return to school. I found MSJC, and for the first time in years, continuing my education felt possible. Choosing MSJC really changed everything. It was more than just the right fit for my needs — it surpassed every expectation I had about what a community college experience could offer.”
Jessie Parks, 2025 Brothers of the Desert Scholarship Recipient
In the Coachella Valley, the Brothers of the Desert Scholarship Fund awarded two $2000 scholarships in its first year. “We created and raised money for our Brothers of the Desert Scholarship to support students who identify within the intersection of being Black and a member of the LGBTQ+ community,” says Brothers of the Desert President, Tim Vincent. “We believe this has never been done before with this specific intention in our geographic area. We hope this award uplifts the recipients, and that people recognize the importance of succeeding while living in your truth.”
The CIELO Fund, an IECF Signature Fund supporting Latino-led organizations and priorities, has now awarded $232,000 in scholarships to 122 students across the region through the CIELO Fund Scholars Program.
2024 CIELO Scholarship Recipients
It’s one of several funds moving the needle on educational opportunity for communities that have historically been left out or left behind.
Since 2022, the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation Scholarship Team Member Dependent Scholarship Fund has awarded nearly $2 million to help tribal employees’ dependents pursue their educational dreams.
Every one of these scholarships represents a student with a story, and often a lot of courage. These are students who are working hard, navigating complex systems, and trying to make something better for themselves and their families. We’re proud to walk alongside them.
Of course, we know there’s still a long way to go. For each scholarship awarded, there are many more deserving students hoping for a yes. If, like us, you’re inspired by the incredible potential of these young scholars, we invite you to be part of their journey. You can give to an existing scholarship fund or talk to us about starting one that honors your family’s story, supports a specific field of study, or uplifts a community you care about.
Thanks to our community of fundholders, partners, and advocates, we’re making steady progress together. This work continues because people like you choose to show up for students and for the future of the Inland Empire. Contact our Charitable Giving Team today to learn how you can help.
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