SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) celebrated student achievement and the power of community support at its annual LTCC Foundation Scholarship Awards Lunch held on Friday, June 6. The event honored 128 individual students who are collectively receiving approximately $274,000 in scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, with more awards still to be distributed, bringing the total available to $335,000.

Students, donors, faculty, and community members gathered to recognize academic excellence, perseverance, and the transformative impact of philanthropy. The event highlighted LTCC’s ongoing commitment to equity, access, and student success.

“Today, we are here to celebrate the incredible generosity of our community and the determination and achievements of our students,” said Nancy Harrison, LTCC Foundation Director. “Whether donors are individual supporters, part of a family foundation, a business, or a community organization, their support is not only helping students pay for school but helping them believe in their futures.”

Among this year’s scholarship recipients is Bethany Shafer, a South Tahoe native who began her journey at LTCC through dual enrollment at South Tahoe High School and continued on for three years at the college. Now transferring to the University of Nevada, Reno’s Orvis School of Nursing, Bethany expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with donors who helped make her path possible.

“It was awesome to share time with the donors, celebrating everyone’s hard work and determination,” she said. Bethany’s mother, Lisa, is a member of LTCC’s staff, making this recognition particularly meaningful for the college community.

Also honored was Jeffrey Wheat, a former foster youth and first-generation college student. With a 3.42 GPA and goals of becoming a global marketing manager, Jeffrey is completing a Business Administration 2.0 Associate of Science degree along with a Real Estate Certificate.He has been an engaged participant in LTCC’s EOPS and NextUp programs, seeking regular guidance and support as he prepares to transfer to Fresno State University.

“Despite his challenging background, Jeffrey approaches his education with optimism and determination,” noted his LTCC counselor in a recent scholarship nomination. “His desire to expand his perspectives and lead with empathy exemplifies the spirit we seek to foster in all our students.”

These student stories highlight the value of LTCC Foundation scholarships—not only in alleviating financial burdens, but also in acknowledging individual resilience, hard work, and potential. Awards are based on academic achievement, financial need, and specific donor-directed criteria.

For more information about scholarship opportunities or to support LTCC students through the Foundation, please visit http://www.ltccfoundation.org or call (530) 541-4660 x266.