The holiday season is now upon us, bringing a sense of warmth and joy as we embrace the final month of the year. December invites us to gather with loved ones, reflect on the shared moments, and look ahead to new beginnings. It’s a time for creating memories, spreading kindness, and enjoying the season’s simple pleasures. Here’s to a month full of peace, celebration, and heartfelt connections.


You have our very best!

Jackie and Kristine

Hartnell College and Cal State Monterey Bay launched

new degree pathway program at

a signing ceremony on Oct. 31

Hartnell College and Cal State Monterey Bay (CSUMB) are excited to announce the launch of the Panther Otter Pathway (POP) Program, a groundbreaking collaboration designed to make earning a bachelor’s degree more accessible for students. The new program creates a streamlined path for first-time, first-year students who may not meet CSU entrance requirements directly after high school. Students in the POP Program will be simultaneously admitted to Hartnell College and CSUMB, allowing them to earn an Associate Degree for Transfer at Hartnell and secure guaranteed admission to CSUMB. This partnership simplifies the process, enabling students to apply to both institutions with one unified application.

The POP Program aims to boost graduation rates, provide students with a clear and supportive pathway to higher education, and prepare them for rewarding careers. By offering seamless transitions from community college to a four-year university, this initiative helps promote economic mobility and strengthens local communities. “This program further enhances social mobility and streamlines the process for students to continue their studies with us once they complete their associate degrees,” said CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones. Hartnell College President Michael Gutierrez echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the goal is to remove barriers to higher education and ensure students’ success from start to finish.

Both college presidents attended a joint signing ceremony on October 31 at CSUMB’s Otter Student Union to celebrate this exciting milestone. The Panther Otter Pathway Program represents a vital step forward in supporting students’ educational journeys and fostering economic growth in the region. Click here to read more.

David Rodríguez Muñoz

Disillusioned with school as a teenager in East Salinas, David Rodríguez Muñoz dropped out and earned his GED before working at Taylor Farms, packaging salads.

One late night in the company cafeteria, David realized he didn’t want to continue down that path indefinitely. Though unsure of his next steps, he knew he needed to find a career that resonated with him. This led him to Hartnell College, where, after some initial struggles, he discovered his talent for photography. His photography teacher, Eric Bosler, was pivotal in nurturing David’s interest and helping him find his focus and pathway. David credits Bosler as the “glue that kept him together” throughout his journey at Hartnell. Click here to read more.

One Gift of Appreciated Stock = Two Tax-Savings Benefits

Consider this: you own stock that’s grown in value over the years. Selling it for cash to make a donation is fine, but there’s a more impactful, thoughtful option—one that stretches your generosity and redirects your tax money away from the IRS and towards the Mount.
 
Here’s the opportunity:
When you donate appreciated stock directly to the Mount, you unlock two powerful benefits.
 
First, you get an income tax deduction for the full market value of the stock—just like cash gifts, if you itemize your deductions.
 
Second—and here’s the magic— you avoid the capital gains tax entirely. Normally, selling that stock would trigger a tax bill on the growth, but by donating it, you eliminate that tax burden.

It’s a win-win. Your generosity fuels life-changing work at the Mount while your gift goes further—maximizing impact for both the mission and your finances.
 
Think beyond the usual. Your stock portfolio isn’t just an investment; it’s a tool for creating change.
 
For more information, please visit our website.

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!

As we welcome November, a time for reflection and gratitude, let’s take a moment to think about what we appreciate most in our lives. With Thanksgiving approaching, we can strengthen our connections and embrace the season’s spirit. Here’s to a thoughtful and meaningful month ahead.

You have our very best!

Jackie and Kristine

Hall of Fame

Sponsorship opportunities are now available for the highly anticipated 2024 Hartnell Athletics Hall of Fame, set to honor the remarkable achievements of athletes, faculty, and supporters. This year’s inductees include accomplished athletes such as Caron Choy and Jody Cobb Nance from the track team and standout figures from basketball, baseball, swimming, and cross country. Additionally, the event will celebrate the contributions of dedicated staff like Robert Kersey and Melissa Stave and devoted volunteers, including Cel Esperanza. Recognized teams include the 1975 Men’s and Women’s Swim & Dive Team, the 1978 Baseball Team, and the 2013 Men’s Soccer Team.

The Hall of Fame celebration will occur on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Hartnell College in Salinas, CA. The day will begin with a college tour led by Dean of Athletics Daniel Teresa, followed by check-in, photo opportunities, and a luncheon featuring the induction ceremony. The festivities will culminate in a tailgate party at Storm House and a thrilling football game against Cabrillo College at Rabobank Stadium. With a proud athletic tradition spanning over 90 years, Hartnell College has cultivated over 15,000 successful student-athletes with impressive transfer rates and academic achievements. Join us in celebrating this legacy of excellence and inspiring future generations! Click here to read more.

An Advocate for AG Education: Emmett Linder

When Emmett Linder graduated from Hartnell College in 1977, he had no idea what impact he would have on the college district years later. Born and raised in Salinas, Linder is one of five boys who attended Madonna del Sasso and Palma.

His love for agriculture led him to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he earned a bachelor’s in ag business management in 1979.

“My last class final was on a Thursday, and I already had a job lined up for me – I started that job the following Monday,” Linder said.

He spent two years working for Wesco, a subsidiary of Kroger Foods. The opportunity to work at Driscoll’s came about, and he was hired as an assistant product quality manager. After a few years, he began to move up the ladder. He is proud to have built the transportation department and food safety and to be an ambassador for Driscoll’s in the community. Click here to read more.

Use Your Donor-Advised Fund
for Effortless Giving 

Think of a donor-advised fund (DAF) as your personal charity bank. You deposit funds, get an immediate tax deduction, and then distribute them to your favorite causes on your schedule. It’s a convenient and efficient way to give, putting you in control of your charitable contributions. It exclusively supports qualified public charities, ensuring your donations make a difference. 

Directly Give from Your IRA and
Meet Your Required Minimum Distribution

If you’re over 70½, here’s a smart move: donate directly from your traditional IRA. This lets you give from pre-taxed assets and skip the income tax on the gifted amount, up to $105,000 annually. Plus, it helps meet your Required Minimum Distribution starting at age 73. Perfect for those who don’t need all their IRA income or don’t itemize deductions. 

Unlock the Power of a Charitable Gift Annuity

Imagine this: a world where your generosity not only secures your financial future but also leaves a lasting impact on something greater. That’s the beauty of a Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA). In a time when the market’s unpredictability can feel like a rollercoaster, a CGA offers you a steady, reliable stream of income for life.

But it’s more than just a financial decision—it’s a chance to make a meaningful difference.

Here’s how it works: you make a gift, and in return, we provide you and/or your spouse with fixed payments for life. These payments are tailored to your age, designed to meet your unique financial needs, and often more generous than what you might find in the market. Plus, there are significant tax benefits, like a potential charitable income tax deduction and the possibility of some payments being tax-free. Furthermore, if you fund your CGA with appreciated assets, you can bypass capital gains taxes on the charitable portion of your gift.

So, with a CGA, you’re not just securing a stable financial future—you’re also supporting a cause that’s close to your heart. It’s a win-win: peace of mind for you and a lasting legacy for Hartnell College and its mission.

This November, empower yourself by choosing the giving strategy that works best for you. With these options, you can watch your impact grow and feel in control of your charitable contributions.

To learn more about the benefits that come from these ways of giving, please visit our website.

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!

To make an immediate gift in support of Hartnell students, please click here.
The information contained in this newsletter is not intended as tax, legal, or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult with your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation.

As October ushers in the vibrant colors of fall, we embrace a season of transformation and reflection. The crisp air and changing leaves inspire new beginnings, making it the perfect time to set fresh goals and connect with our communities. This month offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the richness of autumn, from harvest festivals to cozy gatherings, all while fostering a spirit of gratitude and collaboration. Let’s welcome October with enthusiasm, ready to engage in meaningful activities and create lasting memories as we transition into this beautiful season.

You have our very best!

Jackie and Kristine

PAYING IT FORWARD

Alum’s Desire to Change Lives Through an Education

Heralio Serrano’s story is about determination to pursue his dreams, the positive influence of his mother, seizing educational opportunities, achieving success in his chosen field of work, and coming full circle to help others.

Serrano came to the United States at 10 and attended many schools as his parents traveled throughout California as field workers. Changing schools so often meant establishing new relationships with teachers and friends with each move, constantly starting over. At 15, he went to Mexico to finish his last two high school years.

He returned to Salinas at 18 and began work in a nursery. At the urging of his mother, he enrolled in Hartnell College. It was not an easy path since he was not well prepared in math and English, but he persevered and transferred to U.C. Santa Cruz, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. He then attended medical school at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire and concurrently pursued a master’s in public health at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. He graduated with a combined MD/MPH in 1990. Scholarship support at Hartnell and UC Santa Cruz allowed him to pursue his education.

Serrano practiced Internal Medicine at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco until he retired two years ago. He is now a physician for a nonprofit medical clinic in San Francisco. He enjoys traveling, reading, history, and exercise in his spare time.

Maria Serrano, Dr. Serrano’s mother, did not have the opportunity to go to school but believed strongly in the power of education and encouraged her five children to attend college. One of the older daughters attended Hartnell, UC Santa Cruz, and San Jose State University and became a teacher. Another daughter attended Hartnell and is a nurse, and the third daughter attended UC Berkeley and Columbia University and is an attorney. Dr. Serrano’s brother, who attended Columbia and Harvard, is a banker in New York. Their mom also encouraged other children in their neighborhood to continue their education, making a lasting difference in the lives of many young people.

Serrano, who credits much of his success to his mother’s belief in him, has included the Hartnell College Foundation in his estate plans. He has established the Dr. Heralio Serrano and Maria Serrano Scholarship Endowment in honor of his mother, in gratitude for the education he received at Hartnell College, and to support promising students from the Salinas Valley.

In addition to a transformational estate gift, Dr. Serrano has already begun to fund the endowment that will be fully funded by his estate, allowing current students to receive scholarships. He hopes that young people from families like his will benefit from his gift and be encouraged by the support.

“If I can change the life of one young person, I hope it will have a ripple effect,” he said.  “This is how we change the world, one child at a time.”

With his gift, Dr. Serrano is changing the lives of countless young people, now and in the future. The ripple effect that began with his mother continues through Dr. Serrano at Hartnell and beyond.

“We are so proud to call Dr. Heralio Serrano an alumnus of Hartnell College – his inspiring story is an example for others,” said Dr. Jackie Cruz, Vice President of Advancement and Development at Hartnell College and Executive Director of the Hartnell College Foundation. “We are profoundly grateful for his generosity and the difference it will make in the lives of our students.”

2024 Gala for the Arts

The Hartnell College Foundation and the Council for the Arts proudly hosted the 2024 Gala for the Arts on Saturday, August 17, 2024, honoring eight remarkable individuals for their unwavering support and promotion of the arts. Among the distinguished honorees were Linda Gin and Pat Horsley, who received the prestigious Distinguished Service to the Arts Award, a testament to their dedication and contributions to the arts and community. Both Hartnell College alumni had dedicated years to uplifting the arts within the college community as donors, volunteers, and passionate advocates.

Linda, a Salinas native, built a successful career in banking, retiring as a Vice President-Trust Officer for Wells Fargo. Her commitment to community service was evident in her roles on various boards, including the League of Women Voters and the Hartnell College Foundation. Originally from Iowa, Pat pursued her love of opera and theater, teaching music in local schools and performing throughout the Monterey area. Both women exemplified a lifelong dedication to the arts and community service, earning well-deserved recognition at the gala alongside other notable honorees. Congratulations to all for their extraordinary contributions! Click here to read more.

Focusing on the education and workforce development needs of communities in the Salinas Valley, Hartnell College strengthens communities by providing opportunities for students to reach career and/or academic goals (baccalaureate degrees, associate degrees, certificates of achievement, and transfer to four-year institutions) in an environment committed to student learning, achievement and success.

We deeply appreciate your continued support. In doing so, please consider these two more tax-friendly ways to give:

Give directly from appreciated stock
and receive two tax benefits

If you own appreciated stock, don’t sell it. Instead, donate it directly to the Hartnell College Foundation. You’ll get an income tax deduction for the full market value AND dodge capital gains tax. It’s a win-win for you and Hartnell’s mission. Plus, you can always buy back the stock to reset your gains. Smart giving, big impact!

Here’s what the difference can look like.

If you have questions or want to learn more about the benefits of giving from appreciated stock, please click here.

Give directly from your IRA
and fulfill your RMD

Imagine a strategy that lets you make a significant impact without touching your income. That’s the beauty of giving directly from your IRA.

Instead of withdrawing income from your IRA and paying income tax on it, you can give up to $105,000 per year directly to the Hartnell College Foundation without spending a dime in taxes on the gifted amount. This is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), and it’s available to you once you hit age 70 1/2.

This strategy can be a game-changer if you don’t need all the income from your IRA. Not only does it help you avoid taxes, but it also allows you to fulfill your charitable goals in a highly efficient way.

Plus, your direct gift from the IRA can count towards your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for the year. This is excellent news for those who don’t need all their IRA income and prefer to see it support a nonprofit like Hartnell College instead.

So, why not turn your RMD into a meaningful impact? It’s a savvy move that benefits both you and the causes you care about.
If you have questions or want to learn more about the benefits of giving from your IRA, please click here.

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!

To make an immediate gift in support of Hartnell students, please click here.

The information contained in this newsletter is not intended as tax, legal, or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult with your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation.

2024 Arts Award Honorees

August is a timely nudge for those who haven’t yet taken the crucial step of crafting their living trust or will. Perhaps revisiting the one gathering dust is in order. A will isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a tool that ensures your most current wishes are honored and allows your loved ones to go through a smoother probate process. It’s about taking a moment today to secure peace of mind for tomorrow. Make your will this month. Your future self and family will thank you. We invite you to look at our website to discover more.

Request Your Estate Planning Guide

As we dive into the heart of summer, July brings a vibrant blend of sun-soaked days and starry nights, perfect for beach trips, backyard barbecues, and fireworks. This month is about celebrating freedom, embracing warmth, and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. So, let’s soak up the sun, enjoy the longer days, and make the most of everything this lively month offers. Here’s to a fantastic July filled with fun, relaxation, and a touch of adventure!

With appreciation,
Jackie and Kristine

CalKIDS Sets Children Up with Funds for College

June brings with it the promise of sunshine, warmth, and endless possibilities. As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, it’s a time to embrace outdoor adventures, leisurely evenings, and cherished moments with loved ones. Whether it’s enjoying a picnic in the park, strolling along the beach at sunset, or embarking on a spontaneous road trip, June invites us to savor the beauty of nature and the joys of summertime. With its vibrant energy and sense of renewal, June inspires us to embrace new beginnings, pursue our passions, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

With appreciation,
Jackie and Kristine

Using the arts in healing

Incorporating the arts into psychology

She was only eight years old when she discovered her love for acting. Deztenee Sanchez, 19, is celebrating her graduation from Hartnell College as a psychology major and heading to UC San Diego to receive her bachelor’s. She plans to continue to earn her master’s and perhaps a doctorate right after.

She carries the arts in her blood and wants to do something special.

“Theater has made a big impact in my life and has been my safe space, a place to relax; it’s what I love,” she said. “I want to help create those safe spaces for others to feel happy and accomplished.”

She dreams of creating spaces where her future clients can go in and talk but also express themselves artistically, alleviating the stressors of their lives a little better or easier.

Deztenee believes that this outside-the-box idea can make a huge difference, so her clients find hope in expressing a talent—that being acting, writing, producing, directing, makeup, stage management, etc.

“The arts can heal, and even those with special abilities or conditions can feel a sense of belonging,” she said.

The Hartnell alumna grew up in King City, where she found Sol Treasures and began acting for the program. She continued acting in high school and decided to take an acting class at Hartnell, which she loved. Deztenee has performed at the college and will continue to do so over the summer.

She is a Salinas Valley Promise student and graduated within two years. In addition, 2024 is extra special to her and her family. Her parents graduated with bachelor’s degrees in business administration from CSU Monterey Bay.

“I am so proud of my mom and dad – they did it!” she said. “My sister is also talented in sports; we all have unique attributes.”

As she enjoys the summer, she loves going to the movies, the beach, arcades, shopping, and trying different foods. She looks forward to starting her junior year at UCSD and finding opportunities to get involved with the arts.

“I work with autistic children and have used theater therapy with them,” she said. “I find this method effective and can’t wait to design my program to help even more children.”

GALA FOR FOR THE ARTS, AUGUST 17 

You are invited to celebrate and uplift art and creativity at Hartnell College. The festive Gala for the Arts is in August this year and will be paired up with The Western Stage’s production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. We are looking for sponsors! Contact Celeste DeWald at 831-755-6810 or cdewald@hartnellcollegefoundation.org to secure your sponsorship for our arts program.

 

 

Hartnell College President’s Report

At the heart of the California Community College (CCC) mission lies a steadfast commitment to facilitating student transfer to four-year universities. Despite challenges like financial constraints and the desire to remain close to home, Hartnell College stands out as a beacon of success and ambition within this landscape. With a vibrant “transfer culture,” we foster dialogue, support, and belief in every student’s potential. Our role goes beyond traditional teaching; it’s about opening doors and guiding students toward their academic dreams. We’re dedicated to nurturing conversations around transfer, ensuring every student sees it as an attainable goal.

Engaging in pivotal conversations about transfer begins with simple yet impactful strategies. We create a supportive community of inspiration and aspiration by asking students about their transfer goals, promoting resources like the Career and Transfer (CAT) Hub, and participating in events like Transfer Tuesday. These efforts are personal investments in our students’ futures, empowering them with knowledge and support as they journey toward their transfer goals. Let’s celebrate each step our students take toward academic success beyond Hartnell College. Read more here.

Do you have real estate you wish to sell?  

 

Consider this: By gifting that appreciated real property, you’re not just letting go—you’re opening the door to possibility while benefiting from significant tax savings. Your real estate gift can significantly impact our future, shaping the path forward in ways you might never have imagined. Moreover, if you wish to receive income for life from that real estate, you may find the following options to be worth your consideration. 

Stay in your home and benefit

Life Estate Gift: You transfer your property to the Hartnell College Foundation, but you can still live there for life. You can also get a tax deduction based on the property’s value. This option ensures that you can continue to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of your home while making a significant contribution to our cause. 

Life Estate Gift with Income: In addition to transferring your property to the Hartnell College Foundation and remaining in your home for life, if you own the property outright, you can receive income from a charitable gift annuity and a tax deduction on the charitable portion of your gift. This option not only allows you to support our mission but also provides you with a secure income and tax benefits.  

Fund a Charitable Trust with your unwanted real estate and receive income for life

Unitrust: This special trust is funded by charitable donations. It pays income to beneficiaries for life or a set number of years. After that, whatever remains in the trust goes to charity. 

Please read more here to learn how a gift of real estate may benefit you. To try out our unitrust calculators, click here.

Plan Your Will/Trust and Protect Your Loved Ones

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!

The information contained in this newsletter is not intended as tax, legal, or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult with your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation.

Spring is just around the corner, and March is here to pave the way with its sunny disposition and blooming optimism! Let’s kickstart this month with a burst of energy and a dash of outdoor adventure. Picture this: a day filled with laughter, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether you’re strolling through the park, pedaling down a scenic trail, or simply basking in the warmth of the sun, there’s magic in every moment. So, grab your favorite hiking buddy, pack a picnic, and make this March a whirlwind of joy and unforgettable experiences!

With appreciation,
Jacqueline and Kristine

Twenty years ago, David Jones, 68, joined the custodian team at Hartnell College. He has loved coming to work daily and spending time on campus, even on his days off.

“I like what I do – I interact with the students and everyone who comes through the doors,” he said. “I am a resource to those needing assistance on any given day.”

Now a lead custodian, he makes a difference in students’ lives. Jones is a President Circle Member now and, as such, is committed to student success.

“If I can’t help others physically, I can help financially,” he said. “We all have the opportunity to help in any way we can.”

Jones joined the Hartnell College Foundation’s Employee Giving many years ago. He could give $10 – $15 per month towards scholarships. But two years ago, he decided he could make a more significant impact and raised his monthly donation to $100 – landing him in the President’s Circle category for those who give annual contributions of $1,000 or more.

“This sends a powerful message to our students that we believe in them and are willing to support them above and beyond our everyday work,” said Jackie Cruz, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director for the Hartnell College Foundation. “What David is doing is admirable – he is a source of inspiration.”

During the first two months of 2024, the campaign has raised $130,952.98, including 79 President Circle Members for 162 employee donors.

“I have talked to some scholarship recipients, and they appreciate the help,” he said. “They are going through hardships, and the scholarships help them in different areas of their lives.”

Jones was born in Washington State and raised in Colorado. His dad was in the military, and the family made it to Monterey (Fort Ord) and settled here. He has two sisters and two brothers. His dad passed away, but his mom lives in Seaside, and he gets to visit her often.

“I was never given anything, so I have the opportunity to put this donation to good use – as a contributor and role model,” he said.

The Men’s Institute for Leadership and Education

Hartnell College introduced the Men’s Institute for Leadership and Education (MILE) Program in 2015, aiming to recognize and support men’s contributions to their families and communities while addressing the unique challenges they face in academic and personal spheres. Despite men comprising 50% of Hartnell students, only 30% of degrees are earned by males, prompting the establishment of MILE to foster academic success and leadership among male scholars. The program offers a comprehensive package including intensive leadership training, access to campus resources, mentorship from community leaders, and a $2,500 financial award per student, empowering MILE scholars to overcome obstacles and thrive inside and outside the classroom. With 20 scholars awarded and several community leaders volunteering their mentorship, MILE has proven to be a transformative experience for participants, shaping their paths toward personal, academic, and professional success.

Driven by a mission to elevate graduation rates and empower male students in the Salinas Valley, MILE is dedicated to guiding scholars to realize their full potential through leadership development, mentorship, and financial assistance. The program envisions a future where MILE Scholars at Hartnell College emerge as community leaders with the skills and support necessary to achieve their academic and professional goals. With a focus on fostering leadership potential and facilitating holistic success, MILE aspires to make a lasting impact on the lives of its scholars, contributing to a culture of achievement and empowerment within the college and beyond.
Learn More Here.

Complete Your Will or Living Trust
by Attending Our Next Estate Planning Seminar on
April 17, 2024, Beginning at 5:30 PM

Please consider attending this complimentary seminar and start your way to creating your legacy. To RSVP for your spot, please email Jackie Cruz at jcruz@hartnell.edu or Kristine Edmunds at kedmunds@hartnell.edu.

What Happens to Your IRA When You Are Done Using It?

By design, Congress wishes for you to exhaust your traditional IRA during your lifetime. After all, it is based on your pre-taxed retirement savings. Should your IRA outlast you, your beneficiaries who inherit your IRA will pay ordinary income tax on any withdrawals they make. Your beneficiaries must then empty the IRA within ten years, which could be a significant tax burden.

Nonprofits, however, will not pay taxes on any gift from your IRA. Furthermore, there are better ways to provide for your heirs without the tax burden. If you want to learn more about the various ways and tax advantages of leaving the Hartnell College Foundation as a beneficiary of your IRA, please click here or contact us.

Your Planning Gives Your Loved Ones Hope

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

Our very best!