On April 14, 2023, the Network of California Community College Foundations honored the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians as the 2022 Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year.
The Tribe was honored for its generous $17.2 million in philanthropic support to California community colleges in recent years. San Manuel has invested in colleges throughout the Inland Empire, including Chaffey, San Bernardino Valley, Crafton Hills, and Victor Valley, and has provided financial support to San Bernardino and Riverside community college districts.
The Tribe’s support of programs, such as the Valley-Bound Commitment Program at San Bernardino Valley College, has helped to eliminate financial barriers for Inland Empire students who may not have otherwise had the financial means to continue their education beyond high school. “We believe education is the doorway to enlightenment,” said San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena. “Community colleges provide the first steps to higher education for many students to pursue college degrees and fulfill life goals. As a result, families become stronger by establishing new and positive education traditions for future generations.”
