Together for Tomorrow

Together for Tomorrow: A New Era of Community Support

On May 17, 2025, Together for Tomorrow raised $326,640 for student success!

Portland Community College supporters came together in a powerful show of generosity on Saturday, May 17, raising $326,640 at Together for Tomorrow, a new celebration hosted by the PCC Foundation at the Sylvania Campus and presented by Comcast. The funds will directly support Bridges to the Future scholarships and other critical student needs.

This lively event marked a fresh chapter for PCC’s annual fundraiser, replacing the traditional gala with a vibrant, on-campus celebration designed to foster connection, expand access, and ground the experience in the heart of PCC’s community. Festive party tents transformed the Performing Arts Center courtyard into a full-scale celebration where attendees enjoyed an expansive spread of delicious fare, custom cocktails, and an endorphin-pumping soundtrack from DJ Aspen, a PCC student and DJ for several of Portland’s pro sports teams.

At the heart of the evening were powerful student stories that illustrated the real-world impact of scholarship support. Jonathan Bennett Watson, a PCC alum now studying engineering at Oregon State University, spoke about his experience of how his scholarship helped him prioritize his studies:?

“The Bridges to the Future scholarship allowed me to reduce my work hours and focus on my education. That time — that space — changed everything for me. No longer were assignments just tasks to complete. They were puzzles to solve. Challenges to embrace. This shift in mindset pushed me to reach my full potential.”?

Additional moments of inspiration came through video storytelling. PCC student and aspiring geologist Rachel Diane shared how she overcame a difficult childhood to thrive with the help of scholarship support. In another video, students Ricardo Bravo, Luz Zurita Garcia, and Mikala Stofiel showed how the PCC Foundation expands access to education, strengthens student supports, and ignites workforce opportunities across the region.?

The evening opened with a rousing performance by the Rex Putnam High School Indoor Percussion, and featured remarks from PCC President Dr. Adrien L. Bennings, Foundation Executive Director Christina Kline, Foundation Board President Kim Morgan, and Rebecca Brown, Senior Director of Community Impact at Comcast, the event’s presenting sponsor. Sama Shagaga, Foundation Trustee, served as emcee, and benefit auctioneer Kelly Russell led the special appeal.

“The funds raised will have a transformative impact for students,” said Christina Kline. “It’s truly inspiring to be in community with so many people who believe in the power of education to change lives — people who understand that the future we want is one we build together.”

Two men shake hands next to a smiling woman . A group of 8 smile on stage ? A guest dances among a crowd
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