Crafton Hills College Welcomes Retirees Back to Campus for Brunch and Tour - Crafton Hills College
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Publish Date: May 29, 2026

Retiree Brunch

On May 28, Crafton Hills College welcomed retirees back to campus for a special brunch and tour celebrating their lasting impact on the college and its students. The event provided former administrators, faculty and staff with updates on the college’s facilities, programs, enrollment growth, and opportunities to continue supporting students through the Crafton Hills College Foundation.

Retirees toured the construction site of the new Oosan Instructional Building and visited the recently opened Finkelstein Performing Arts Center before reconnecting with former coworkers over brunch and conversation.

During the program, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Michelle Riggs shared a video from the college’s May 15 commencement ceremony and introduced recent graduate Thea Lucas, whose powerful story became one of the highlights of the event. Lucas spoke about overcoming tremendous personal hardships while pursuing her education and credited the care, encouragement, and support she received from Crafton faculty and staff for helping transform her life and future.

College President Dr. Kevin Horan and Michelle Riggs also shared updates on the college’s continued momentum and growth. Crafton Hills College has experienced a 42% increase in enrollment since 2022-2023 and reached the highest enrollment levels in its history during the 2025-2026 academic year.

The presentation highlighted the college’s expanding dual enrollment program, which now represents 24% of the student body and include new partnerships with Rim of the World and Bear Valley Unified school districts.

Attendees also learned about the launch of the college’s new Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program and the continued growth of the Crafton Hills College Foundation, whose assets have increased from just over $4 million five years ago to more than $10 million today. 

The event served as both a celebration of Crafton’s past and an inspiring look at its future, while honoring the retirees whose dedication helped build the supportive and student-centered culture that continues to change lives today.