The Philanthropy Friends of Cosumnes River College held an event on Oct. 25 that offered information on fundraising and programs for students.

The members of Friends of CRC are focusing on increasing a fundraising presence in the community through outreach by bringing attention to their philanthropic cause.

“We are always looking for different ways to make CRC more visible and illustrate student needs,” said Michele K. Steiner, director of donor relations.

Students always need scholarships, ways to offset program costs, required materials and knowing how to equip students so everyone is work ready when they leave, said Steiner.

College President Ed Bush spoke to a room of less than 30 people about how the community college is recognizing its students, and making moves to improve their experience on campus.

“One thing we are really proud of is the diversity of our college,” said Bush. “Looking at all the community colleges across the nation, CRC is ninth most diverse in the country and second in Calif. behind Berkeley State College.”

Bush highlighted the success rate at CRC, which has been up by five percent from 64.2 percent to 69. This is the highest increase in success rate the college has seen in years, said Bush.

“Funding used to depend on the amount of students you have but now there’s been a switch, where a significant portion of funds is going towards performance-based funding,” said Bush.

Dollars are being allocated depending on the number of students graduating, how many receive federal aid and the quantity of those students that complete English and math within their first year, according to statistics provided by Bush.

AB19, which offers full tuition to first-time colleges students enrolled in over 12 units, is something Bush said “would be great to spread to the community.”

Currently, the college is putting $21 million into the construction of a new college center on campus which will include counseling and administration, and also hold the president’s office, said Bush.

Dean of Careers and Technology Division Kim Harell said the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program saw students to 100 percent exam completion and job placement.

“The average salary of a medical sonographer is $100,000 a year. Spread the word! We are here, and looking for students,” said Harrell.

For more information on college funding, scholarships and programs, you can visit WINN 109 on campus or the website for CRC Office of Philanthropy