Dr. Ruiz Announces $2.6 Million Grant to Mt. San Jacinto College

Palm Desert, CA – Today, Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-Palm Desert) announced a $2.6 million grant to Mt. San Jacinto College. These funds will provide students with access to more programs designed to help them stay in college and succeed.

"I am excited to announce the Department of Education has recognized the commitment of the faculty and staff of Mt. San Jacinto Community College to improve the quality and academic success of students in our region. I commend the staff and administration of Mt. San Jacinto Community College for their hard work in securing this grant, and I look forward to the expanded programs and services to achieve academic excellence," said Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D., (CA-36).

"I am thrilled that Mt. San Jacinto College received this generous grant from the Department of Education," said Dr. Roger Schultz, superintendent/president of MSJC. "It will provide additional resources to implement proven innovative practices to support our students, their success and their overall transition to higher education."

MSJC received one of the only 90 grants the U.S. Department of Education awards annually. More than $2.3 million of the grant is designated specifically toward programs, not for administrative costs. This is the third grant of its kind that MSJC has received from the U.S. Department of Education under Title V. The college received $2.2 million in 2003 and $2.8 million in 2010.

"Through previous grant efforts, Mt. San Jacinto College has successfully decreased gaps in student achievement for all groups, specifically for our Hispanic and other underprepared students, which currently represent over 40% of the student population," said Rebecca Teague, dean of Institutional Effectiveness, Planning, Research and Grants and interim project director.

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