Paul B. Sharar Foundation supports CCC's students, faculty and programs

Since 1984, over 5,200 scholarships totaling more than $4.4 million have been awarded to 4,272 CCC students. These scholarships have opened the doors to education for countless individuals, helping them pursue their academic and career goals.

In partnership with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, the High School Equivalency Testing Program (HiSET) has provided tuition vouchers to help graduates take their first college course. Since its inception in 2004, 225 students have used this voucher, with 19 earning associate degrees and 42 earning certificates or diplomas. Six HiSET graduates benefited from the voucher during the 2022-23 academic year.

HiSET Lead Teacher Mary Jo Nier commented, “Through the generosity of many donors, the Paul B. Sharar Foundation always works to find ways to meet the needs of our students, even beyond the classroom. The Foundation also allows staff and faulty professional development opportunities through funding provided by the Foundation.” Nier continued, “HiSET testing costs $75.00, which is completely unaffordable to most of our students. The scholarships provided by the Paul B. Sharar Foundation not only removes an obstacle to student success, it allows us to offer it in such a way that protects the dignity of the student. Most HiSET students have not entertained the thought of college. Offering a FREE class when they graduate gives students a glimpse of a different future. By the time they graduate HiSET, they can envision themselves as college students. Once we get them to experience CCC, they learn that they are part of a new, incredibly supportive community.”

Nier shared, “As students study and work through the equivalency program, we have college conversations. We talk about all the programs available at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges as well as how to get their education paid for. Our team also makes sure people are aware that, as students in the HSE program, they are already a part of the CCC community. They can use the library, visit the food pantry, and be a part of student activities. Several HiSET graduates are now college students who are not only enjoying the full CCC experience, but lending their own personalities and experiences to what makes their school so special. They are involved in fun clubs, activities, and they are getting opportunities to develop leadership skills. For these HiSET grads, what was once unknown, administrative, and scary, now feels like home.”

Since 2009, Opportunity Grants have been awarded to students who have exhausted all other financial aid options. This year, two students were able to continue their education and pursue their college degrees thanks to this grant.

This fund provides students with essential tools such as textbooks and transportation. Receiving support for books and bus passes enable students to stay on track with their studies.

Founded in 2016, this program helps students cover the cost of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society membership. Students were able to join this prestigious honor society in 2023, thanks to the generosity of donors.

With support from the American Legion of Iowa Foundation, this fund provides loans, grants, and scholarships for veteran students to cover tuition, textbooks, and other materials.

Established in 2018, this grant helps students cover emergency expenses such as transportation, vehicle repairs, utilities, food, and medical costs. The fund has provided essential emergency assistance to students in need.

Modeled after the TRIO Program, RISE encourages student engagement with faculty and advisors by offering stipends and full-tuition support. Students who complete 25 hours of engagement per semester receive a $500 stipend for three semesters, with full tuition covered in the final semester leading to their associate degree. RISE students demonstrate higher GPAs, retention rates, and completion rates, highlighting the program’s success.

Since 1990, the Staff Educational Grants, funded by Al and Alice Keen of DeWitt, have provided nearly $115,000 to help CCC employees pursue advanced degrees and certifications. This year, three employees utilized these grants as they work toward earning their PhDs.

The Paul B. Sharar Foundation continues to support CCC’s departments, providing funding for essential equipment that enhances the learning environment. The foundation also funds leadership development programs like the CCC Leaders Engagement, Advocacy, and Development (L.E.A.D.) initiative, which prepares students for future leadership roles.

Thanks to the foundation’s matching funds, significant campus improvement projects have been realized. These include the Library Enhancement Project, renovations to Rooms 116, 150, and 154, and enhancements to the Learning Center, Technology Center, and Bickelhaupt Arboretum.