Longtime RCC Supporter Raises More Than $6,500 for Student Emergency Fund

Justin Scott-Coe, a former adjunct professor and long-time Riverside City College (RCC) supporter, recently organized a crowdfunding campaign to benefit the RCCD Foundation’s Student Emergency Fund. In lieu of birthday gifts for his 50th birthday, Scott-Coe raised more than $6,500 to support RCC students in need. 

Scott-Coe's connection to RCC dates back to the early 2000s when he worked as an adjunct professor. His wife, Jo Scott-Coe, has been a professor at RCC for 15 years. Over the years, Scott-Coe has maintained a close relationship with the college through neighborhood groups such as the Historic Wood Streets Association and the Wood Streets Green Team. 

Inspired by the milestone of turning 50, Scott-Coe decided to support the Tiger community. With guidance from the RCCD Foundation, he focused on the RCC Student Emergency Fund, which addresses students' immediate needs. Scott-Coe emphasized the importance of addressing these basic needs to support student success:  

"You can't do school work successfully if you lack the essentials, whether it's food, clothing, diapers, or even shelter. If you are worrying about those things, that's where your focus will be, and it's not going to be on your education. We should ensure that our students have what they need as part of supporting a solid education. It's not just about scholarships; it's also about sustenance.” 

To organize the campaign, Scott-Coe incorporated donation requests into his 50th birthday party invitations, sent emails to friends and relatives, and promoted the campaign on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn. The Scott-Coes agreed to match up to $2,500 and hoped to raise $5,000. The generosity of contributors exceeded their expectations, with the campaign raising a total of $6,582. 

Scott-Coe encourages others to support the RCCD Foundation and similar initiatives, highlighting the critical role community members play in enhancing the college experience for students. He appreciates the dedication of all RCC faculty, classified professionals, and administrators who are deeply committed to teaching and addressing the broader needs of their students. 

Riverside City College is the community’s college and is grateful for community supporters like Justin Scott-Coe and his wife, beloved faculty member Jo Scott-Coe.