Our Students & Your Generosity Create a Better Community

Advanced Automotive Technology Graduates Awarded Toolboxes

On December 10, 2024, Hartnell College celebrated the achievements of its 2020-2022 Advanced Automotive Technology graduates at the Graduate Toolbox Luncheon. Thanks to the Don Crawford Memorial Fund, supported by Mike, Kathy, and Karen Antle, each graduate received a professional toolbox to enhance their employability. Mike Antle shared heartfelt stories about their grandfather, Don Crawford, whose legacy inspires the program. Since its launch in 2019 by the Hartnell College Foundation, the program has empowered students with tools for success, exemplified by this year’s 17 graduates. Dean Guy Hanna praised the event, emphasizing its dual impact on students and industry. Click here to read more.

AT&T’S Supports Hartnell College Foundation
with $20,000 Grant to Help Bridge Digital Divide
 

The Hartnell College Foundation received a $20,000 grant from AT&T Philanthropy to support low-income Hartnell College students by providing access to computers, helping to bridge the digital divide through digital access so that students can succeed in college.

“We plan on using these funds to purchase laptops for our students,” said Mario Flores, director of basic needs and interim director of Mi CASA Undocuscholar Resource Center. “Some of these laptops will also be allocated to the Hartnell College Satellite Centers, where they coordinate loaner programs for their students.”

Flores is a proud Hartnell alum. He has worked with various student support groups, such as TRiO, HSI, and K-12 school districts in California, and he understands the importance of this support.

“Basic Needs, at least in the context of higher education, refers to the fundamental elements of food security, housing, transportation, mental health, child care, health and hygiene, and technology,” he said. “As for technology, college, in general, requires students to be technologically literate to engage in online material, submit assignments through student portals, and have a computer/laptop and internet to work on assignments once they leave campus.”

Adriana Cervantes (pictured) is in her last year as a Liberal Arts Major with an emphasis in Psychology. She will transfer to CSU Monterey Bay to continue with her education. She is a student worker at the SOUL (Support of Undergraduate Life) Center at Hartnell and sees firsthand how Hartnell is advancing students forward.

“There are a lot of students who need support, and I see it here daily,” she said. “I feel happy to be able to fulfill a need that will get students closer to their academic goals.”

In 2023, Hartnell College conducted an environmental scan for its service area. They found that South County and rural areas are less likely to have access to a desktop or laptop.

“AT&T is proud to collaborate with organizations like Hartnell College Foundation to help close the digital equity gap in Monterey County,” said Bettye Saxon, Ed.D., External Affairs, AT&T California. “Access to connectivity is vital in helping to bridge the digital divide, and we are glad we can provide these resources to those that need them most.”

Most people in Hartnell’s service area have access to a smartphone, from a low of 83.4% (Castroville) to a high of 100% (Spreckels). The highest percentages of people who rely solely on their smartphones for technology needs are in San Ardo (65.8%), San Lucas (63.6%), Castroville (35.4%), King City (31.5%), and Greenfield (29.7%) according to data by the American Community Survey, US Census Bureau, 2021.

By addressing student basic needs, students are more successful. “AT&T is committed to supporting students and families in our communities, giving them the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond,” said Saxon.

“On behalf of our students, community, and Hartnell College, we thank AT&T for the investment and belief in our mission, vision, and core values of service and pursuit of education for everyone,” Mario said. “This grant will have a huge impact on our community.”

If you’re exploring a way to strategically provide your children with income and make a meaningful gift to Hartnell College Foundation consider the “Give It Twice” trust. This option allows you to transfer cash, property, stock, or a retirement asset, such as an IRA, at the end of your life into a charitable remainder unitrust.

Why “give it twice”? Because it lets you create income for your family for a set number of years, and then, when the trust ends, the remaining balance goes to Hartnell College Foundation—or any charity you choose. It’s a powerful and tax-savvy way to care for your loved ones and make a lasting impact.

To learn more about how a “Give It Twice” trust might work for you, please visit our site.

Save the Date
Two Sessions:
One in English and One in Spanish

Estate planning is about the legacy you leave behind. A simple plan can transform probate chaos into clarity, reducing costs and helping avoid family crises. It’s a chance to align your loved ones, creating a story of unity and intention rather than confusion. You can make your wishes known and lead with purpose.
 

Wednesday, April 9, 2025
12:00 pm (English)
6:00 pm (Spanish)

Hartnell College, Nursing and Health Sciences Bldg.
411 Central Ave, Salinas, CA 93901
 

To RSVP, please call (831) 755-6903 or email Kris at kedmunds@hartnell.edu.

Request Your Estate Planning Guide

If you are thinking about giving the Hartnell College Foundation an estate gift from your will or trust, please contact us or learn more on our website.

If you want a free estate planning guide, please click here.

Our very best!