Message from the

Columbia College Foundation President

Dear Tuolumne and Calaveras County Community Members,

I moved to Sonora thirty years ago to become the Deputy County Counsel, and I have lived here ever since.  For many years now, I have served as the legal counsel to both Sonora and Angels Camp, so I have been privileged to learn a great deal about Tuolumne and Calaveras counties.  As such, I am acutely aware of the vital role the College plays for both communities.

In addition, I am a proud alumnus of Gavilan, a community college just south of Santa Clara County.  My parents, both children of the depression, did not attend college but insisted that my sister and I would earn four-year degrees.  I admit that, in my heart, I was hoping my skill on keyboards would make me famous--or at least a living--and college would become unnecessary.  But the music business became the "school of hard knocks" and when my record deal fell apart, I was very glad to be completing my bachelor's in philosophy at U.S.C. and Fresno State.

I went on to get my law degree from the University of Santa Clara, and that brought me to Sonora.  So I believe strongly in the community college system and its ability to educate people on their own terms in their own timelines, and the doors that open to them as a result.

Giving back to the community is one of the values especially stressed by our two counties.  It is a benefit of belonging to a small rural community; people feel a responsibility to each other.  I serve on the Columbia College Foundation board of directors as a way of fulfilling that responsibility.  While the College stays focused on providing excellent educational opportunities, the Foundation concentrates on building community support for the College.

I am very much looking forward to my year as President of the Foundation board.  I hope to see all of you at our Lakeside Jazz and Wine event on October 13.  It's always a Saturday afternoon of great music, food, and wine.

Best Wishes,

Richard Matranga