Students at SMCC depend on your support to achieve their dreams and transform their lives. Your donation supports the Verna McClain Student Emergency Fund where any South Mountain Community College student who needs immediate financial support to pay for financial situations that may cause the student to drop out of college, which include, but are not limited to: meal expenses, rent, automobile repair, bus pass, internet access (if taking an online class), tutoring, supplies as stipulated in the course syllabus, etc. To date, 35 students have applied for the scholarship since July 2020, and over $9,984 has been awarded.

Verna May McClain was an exceptional member of the South Mountain community. Often referred to as the “Mother of South Mountain,” Verna left a legacy of camaraderie, and of advocacy to build a united and educated community in South Phoenix. In 2017, South Mountain Community College named the Student Emergency Fund to honor that legacy, and we hope these funds in her memory help students achieve their career and educational goals!