Wenatchee Valley College Foundation Celebrates Award Winners

The following is a press release provided by Wenatchee Valley College:

The Wenatchee Valley College Foundation has announced the 2020 winners of The Outstanding Friend of the College award and The Harvey Award. Annual awards recognize the support and accomplishments of community members who champion WVC.

Outstand Friend of the College: Sara Lippert

Lippert and her late husband Lee began giving more than 20 years ago, and the Lee and Sara Lippert Scholarship Endowment was established after Lee’s death as a permanent way to support WVC students. Sara served as a foundation board member, and during her tenure she was actively involved in events, fundraising, and recruiting new board members. This award recognizes an individual, couple, family, business, or organization that has contributed to WVC through financial support or service, or a combination of both.

“This institution provides a future for those who seek it, both monetarily and physically,” said Lippert. “When I see donations come in, I know that they will make a significant impact in the life of someone who needs it. That is incredibly powerful.”

The Harvey Award: Tamara Dezellem

This award is presented to a past WVC Foundation Board member who has given time, talent, and treasure in their service to the Foundation and who demonstrates a passion for the College, its faculty, programs, and future growth. Dezellem has served two terms on the Board and served in a leadership role while overseeing the budget and finance committee.

Both award recipients were nominated, and a committee of foundation board and community members made the final selections.

“A significant part of our success is made possible by a team of committed volunteers who donate their time, talents, and resources to provide equitable access to education and invest in student advancement,” said Rachel Evey, executive director of the foundation. “These investments do not go unnoticed. The WVC Foundation is pleased to honor two long-time volunteers with these awards.”

Jaime Ramirez, a teacher at Cascade Elementary School in East Wenatchee, was announced as the Distinguished Alumni of 2020 in February. Those interested in supporting WVC students directly can donate to the WVC Foundation at wvc.edu/Give.