Dear Friends and Supporters,
At UCR Extension, Give Day is so much more than a date on a calendar or a fundraising goal. For us, it is a lifeline. It is a day dedicated to the students who are determined to change their lives, their families’ futures, and the very fabric of our community.
Our students aren't just names on a roster. They are working adults juggling two jobs. They are parents studying after the kids are in bed. They are first-generation college-goers and individuals taking a courageous "second shot" at an education they thought was out of reach. For many of them, the path to a certificate or a degree isn't a straight line—it’s a climb.
Sometimes, the only thing standing between a student and their dream is a small scholarship or an emergency fund to cover an unexpected hurdle. That is why Give Day is so critical. It brings together a community of people who believe in second chances and new beginnings.
This is also why I have committed to running 2,026 miles throughout this year.
People ask me why I’m taking on such a grueling physical challenge. The answer is simple: I want to shine a light on the incredible determination and grit our students show every single day. My journey across these miles is a tribute to their perseverance. When the miles get long and my legs get heavy, I think of the student balancing a graveyard shift with a morning final. Their "run" is much harder than mine.
I believe in our students because I believe in the power of an educated community. When we support workforce development and social mobility, we aren't just "donating." We are investing in the economic engine of our region. We are building a stronger, more resilient, and more equitable Inland Empire.
When you give this Give Day, you are standing behind a student who is already running their own marathon toward a better life. You are telling them that their dreams matter and that their community is cheering them on.
I invite you to join me—not necessarily for a run, but in this mission. Let’s cross the finish line together for our students.
With gratitude and persistence,
Kevin J. Vaughn, Ph.D.
Dean, UCR Extension
University of California, Riverside
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