BRANCHBURG TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — The Raritan Valley Community College Foundation raised more than $2 million in 2024-25, the highest annual fundraising total in the school’s history, officials announced.
The Foundation, which supports scholarships, academic programs and student initiatives at the college, reported $2,014,187 in contributions, surpassing last year’s total by nearly $1 million.
“We’re extremely appreciative of the support we’ve received from individual donors, corporations, and other organizations, who recognize the value that RVCC brings to our students and the greater community,” said RVCC President Michael J. McDonough. “These significant contributions enhance the College’s ability to provide an outstanding educational experience for our students, which couldn’t be more critical given all of the challenges facing higher education today.”
Highlights of the year included a record-breaking Giving Day in March that generated $203,655, aided by a $50,000 match challenge from Jim and Jill Gibson of Basking Ridge and The Caruso Family Foundation, as well as a $50,000 single gift from Lori Grossi of Clinton. The Foundation also received a $375,000 scholarship gift from Frank and Pat Russo, the largest such commitment in the college’s history, providing five full scholarships annually for the next decade.
Other major gifts included $500,000 from Johnson & Johnson to support NJBioFutures, a workforce development initiative in the life sciences, and a $129,228 donation from the Jessamine S. Henderson Foundation to create a new endowed scholarship for adult students.
The year also featured a successful RVCC Foundation Golf Classic, which raised more than $153,000 for scholarships and educational programs.
“Our record fundraising success this year is a direct testament to the generosity of our expanding donor community, and their willingness to step up,” said Mike Marion, executive director of the RVCC Foundation and Alumni Association. “It is so encouraging that more and more people are recognizing the value and importance of this exceptional institution.”
For more information on supporting Raritan Valley Community College and the RVCC Foundation, contact Mike Marion at 908-648-8567 or michael.marion@raritanval.edu.
