Late educator made history at Southwestern College through an endowment gift totaling over $600,000, making it the largest gift in the school’s 60-year history.
Sue Crittendon is a retiree of the National School District and one of the original teachers at Palmer Way School. She carries 34 years of teaching in the third, fourth and fifth grades.
Last year, a memorial plaque and tree was placed at the Palmer Way School in her honor. An additional endowed scholarship fund was established for students in National City.
“Sue knew the key to success is a strong education,” said Sally Bottroff-Hawes, a trustee of Crittendon’s estate. “So she established this endowed scholarship fund in honor of her friends and colleagues to inspire students from National City.”
A total of 30 students will be partially funded with $500 scholarships within the Sweetwater Union High School District each semester with an emphasis on graduates who enroll at SWC. Funds of the Crittendon’s scholarship endowment will be disbursed and managed by the Southwestern College Foundation.
“She wanted them to dream big, pursue their passions and, most importantly, have fun,” Bottroff-Hawes said.
The college is committed to providing equity and opportunity in educating students.
“We are honored to be entrusted with Dr. Sue Crittendon’s legacy,” said Sofia Salgado Robitaille of the Southwestern College Foundation. “She was a visionary, and, per her wishes, the foundation has set up a scholarship program to give hope and support to Southwestern College students. This program will last for as long as the college does.”
