What's New This December

Dear Friends,

As the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what it has taken to support students at Cuesta College during a time of continued change and growing need.

This year, students arrived on our campuses carrying more than just academic goals. Many were navigating financial uncertainty, adjusting to college for the first time, and balancing school with work and family responsibilities. What remained constant; however, was the strength of this community and its commitment to student success.

Because of your support, the Foundation was able to respond in meaningful ways—providing timely assistance when students needed it most, investing in new programs that help students stay on track, and ensuring access to the resources that make persistence and completion possible. From academic support to emergency assistance, your generosity helped students continue moving forward, even when the path felt uncertain.

I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and deeply grateful for the trust you place in us to steward your support thoughtfully and responsibly. As you will see in our annual report, the impact of this work reaches every corner of campus and reflects the collective effort of a community that believes in opportunity and access.

Thank you for being part of Cuesta College’s story and for standing alongside our students throughout the year. I look forward to the work ahead and to continuing this journey together in the year to come.

With gratitude,

Katie Osman

Executive Director, Cuesta College Foundation

P.S. If you’re considering a year-end gift, December 31 is approaching. Every gift helps ensure we can continue responding to student needs as they arise.

WHAT'S NEW

Read the Winter Magazine and Annual Report

Explore the latest Cuesta College Winter Magazine and Annual Report to discover inspiring stories of student success, program highlights, and the meaningful impact of your support. This edition also provides an annual snapshot of key achievements, community partnerships, and progress across campus. View the full digital issue to see how Cuesta College continues to make a difference—and stay connected to what’s ahead.

Celebrating Success: LVN to RN and Medical Assisting Pins Awarded

Seventeen graduates from the Accelerated RN (LVN to RN) Cohort 2025 were honored at a pinning ceremony on Dec. 12. In just one year, they completed a rigorous, care-centered program and earned their Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN). These graduates are now prepared to serve patients and communities with skill, compassion, and a strong commitment to health and well-being.

Second AVMT Cohort Graduation Celebration

Cuesta College celebrated 20 students who earned certificates through the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Program. This intensive 18-month program provides hands-on training, technical skills, and preparation for FAA certification, leading to strong career opportunities in a growing aviation industry. The program is supported by partnerships with ACI Jet, the County of San Luis Obispo, and the U.S. Department of Education.

Weston Greenelsh Makes History

Cuesta College sophomore and former San Luis Obispo High School standout Weston Greenelsh captured his second consecutive 3C2A men’s cross country state championship on Nov. 23. With this win, he became just the third runner in state history—and the first since 2004—to claim back-to-back titles. Greenelsh also set a new course record at the state meet, finishing the 4-mile race in 19:51 and showcasing both his individual excellence and the strength of Cuesta’s cross country program.

Inside the Cougar Food Pantry: A Video Tour

Take a walk-through video tour of the updated Cougar Food Pantry and see how the pantry supports students facing food insecurity and other basic needs challenges. As a new semester approaches, make a donation to the Cougar Food Pantry to help ensure students have access to food and essential resources that support their academic success.

RECENT AND UPCOMING EVENTS

Giving Tuesday Success — Thank You!

Giving Tuesday was a success thanks to the generosity of our community. Together, 32 donors raised $32,664—surpassing our $20,000 goal—and provided critical support for more than 65 Cuesta College students through the CASE Fund. These funds help students stay focused on their education by offering stability and support during challenging times, and donations are still welcome for those who wish to continue supporting students.

SLO Holiday Parade Fun with Students

For the third year, Cuesta College joined the 49th Annual Downtown SLO Holiday Parade with its “Candy Cane Lane of Learning” float, celebrating community and student achievement. The float showcased educational pathways from the arts and health to STEM and the trades, along with a festive a cappella performance by Voce. Students from ASCC, Alpha Gamma Sigma, College Corps, MESA, SACNAS, and Men’s and Women’s Basketball proudly represented Cuesta College downtown.

Cuesta’s First “Holiday Extravaganza!”

Cuesta College’s first-ever “Holiday Extravaganza!” took place on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, bringing together three of the college’s premier music programs on one stage for the first time. The festive concert delivered an evening of holiday cheer and exceptional performances. Audiences enjoyed the Cuesta Wind Ensemble, internationally recognized Chamber Singers, Jazz Bands, and the nationally award-winning Jazz Combo in a curated program of holiday favorites, jazz standards, and new classical works.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Business Partner Spotlight:

Education Employees Credit Union (EECU)

We are grateful for Educational Employees Credit Union (EECU) and its continued commitment to Cuesta College students and our local community. Since 2022, EECU has invested in opportunities that help students learn, grow, and prepare for future careers, including sponsoring the Foundation’s 50th anniversary and sustaining a Mentor-level partnership for four years. Read more about their impact.

SUPPORT STUDENTS

Support Student Success at Cuesta College

Your gift provides students with essential resources and opportunities that directly impact their education and future. Every contribution helps students stay on track and achieve their goals. Donate now to make a meaningful difference.

DONATE NOW

FOLLOW ALONG

Behind the Impact

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to to see student successes, scholarship highlights, and the difference your support makes. Get updates on programs, events, and opportunities to engage with our community.