Redlands Professional Firefighters Establish Endowed Scholarship at Crafton Hills College Fire Academy
Publish Date: Dec. 2, 2025
On Dec. 2, Crafton Hills College (CHC) celebrated a moment of partnership and generosity during a check presentation at the CHC Fire Academy. The Redlands Professional Firefighters Association presented a $12,500 endowed gift to the CHC Foundation to establish a permanent scholarship fund for Fire Academy cadets.
Representing the association at the presentation were Matt Swenson, Captain for Redlands Fire and President of the Redlands Professional Firefighters Association and Dustin Whitaker, Fire Captain for the Redlands Fire Department and President of the Benevolent Fund. The check was presented to CHC Fire Chief Ryan Harold and CHC Operations Specialist Danny Ward.
The Redlands Professional Firefighters Association consists of 54 sworn firefighters dedicated to serving the Redlands community with professionalism, courage and compassion. Their one-time, permanent and irrevocable gift will remain with the foundation in perpetuity. The endowment will be invested, and only the earnings will be used to fund scholarships.
This gift establishes the Redlands Professional Firefighters Association Endowed Scholarship, which will provide a $500 annual scholarship each fall beginning in 2026 to a student enrolled in the CHC Fire Academy.
Whitaker, a proud graduate of CHC Fire Academy Class 57, an associate degree recipient from CHC and a graduate of its paramedic program, shared the personal importance of giving back.
“This college gave me the foundation for my entire career. Crafton shaped who I am as a firefighter and as a person. I love this college, and it means everything to me to be able to support the next generation of cadets who are working toward the same dream.”
Harold emphasized the endowment's long-term impact.
“This scholarship will support our cadets in perpetuity, ensuring that future generations of firefighters have access to the training and resources they need to succeed. We are deeply grateful for this partnership with the Redlands Professional Firefighters Association and their incredible commitment to our students.”
With their investment, the association will help future firefighters pursue their education and serve their communities.
Photo caption: Danny Ward, Matt Swenson, Ryan Harold, Dustin Whitaker
