The College of the Canyons Foundation is thrilled to welcome its new Chair, Fred Arnold. With a heart full of gratitude for the opportunities this community has provided, Fred is eager to give back and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the place that means so much to him.

Fred outlined three crucial initiatives for his first year as Chair that will make a significant impact on our community and institution:

1. Kick Off Funding for ATC (Advanced Technology Center)

To address the pressing need for skilled workers to fill high-paying jobs, the Foundation is preparing to launch a fundraising effort for the Advanced Technology Center (ATC).

Fred is committed to continue fundraising for the Roger Van Hook Raising the Bar Student Success Fund, bridging financial barriers for students pursuing their dreams. Additionally, the Foundation continuously raises funds for scholarships, providing vital support to students at College of the Canyons.

3. Strengthening Our Board with Successful Local Professionals

Recognizing the significance of strong leadership, Fred aims to bolster the board’s efforts by recruiting accomplished local professionals who share a passion for making a difference in our community. This initiative will lead our great college towards a brighter future, serving the community more effectively.

Why College of the Canyons?

For Fred, the decision to give back to COC is rooted in a firm belief in the college’s mission of helping people achieve their dreams and goals. COC provides a great education and allows him to employ many well-educated individuals, inspiring him to step up and give back.

While COC holds a special place in his heart, Fred is also actively involved with other organizations making a profound impact on our community’s well-being. He proudly supports the Child and Family Center and contributes to the Disaster Coalition, extending a helping hand during times of natural calamities.

Join Fred in Giving Back

For those who share a similar passion for giving back, Fred encourages you to get involved. Whether supporting initiatives at COC, contributing to other charitable organizations, or finding unique ways to make a positive impact, every effort counts. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone.

If you’d like to get involved or have ideas for community initiatives, please reach out to Fred at fred.arnold@affloans.com.

Let’s join hands and make a difference together!

The Foundation Board of Directors is excited to introduce our newly installed Co-Chair, Gary Horton, who has been a dedicated member of the Board and was officially installed in this prestigious role on June 22, 2023.

Gary’s journey with the College began when he was invited to join the Chancellor’s Circle by Jill Mellady, and it was through this connection that he eventually joined the Board. Eager to invest in the community he calls home, Gary recognized that College of the Canyons plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives of local residents. The College’s commitment to serving everyone in town resonated deeply with him, making it a worthy cause to devote his time and efforts.

Gary, with his wife Carrie, are engaged in other community initiatives. The two have been heavily involved with the Henry Mayo Hospital Foundation, supporting capital campaigns for the emergency room expansion and new tower addition, and today Gary serves in the hospital’s Business Services Circle. Additionally, through their continuing support of Bridge to Home and Family Promise, the Hortons actively participate in making positive change for those in need. Gary also serves on Chiquita Canyon Landfill Community Advisory Committee, an advisory body to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Regional Planning Commission (RPC), and county staff on issues relating to the l development and operation of the landfill.

Gary is a well-known voice in the community, having written a weekly column for The Signal for an impressive 18 years. Through this platform, he addresses local politics, events, and other community happenings, using his voice to connect with residents and advocate for positive change.

As Co-Chair, his primary goals are to expand the mission and contribution of the Foundation, increasing its relevance and impact on the College’s objectives. By working diligently to enhance the Foundation’s role, he aims to magnify its positive influence on the College’s mission and, in turn, the community at large.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Gary Horton as our Co-Chair, leading our efforts at the College of the Canyons Foundation. With his vision and commitment, we are confident in the Foundation’s ability to make an even greater difference in the lives of our students and community.