Our history
The South Seattle College Foundation was established in 1978 to receive and administer charitable gifts on behalf of South Seattle College.
A focus on building community
The first 20 years of the Foundation’s history focused on extensive friend-raising and cultivating strong relationships while partnering with the College to support its expansion plans. These fundraising efforts led to the growth of the endowment and the development of planned giving strategies, supporting not only campus infrastructure but also expanding both the number and variety of programs offered. By the 1990s, these outreach and planned giving initiatives began to show meaningful results.
Just as in 1978 and still true today, friendship building and fundraising remain the cornerstones of the foundation’s success.
Our founders
Helen Sutton served on the Seattle Community College District Board of Trustees from 1974 to 1985 and was involved with our colleges from the beginning. She was one of South’s earliest and strongest supporters. Helen was instrumental in establishing the South Seattle Community College Foundation and served as a board member for many years, including as president. She also helped create the Arboretum, where the Helen G. Sutton Rose Garden honors her legacy. In addition to her work on the Arboretum Committee, she was a long-time member of the Scholarship Committee.
For almost 50 years, with support from dedicated volunteers, donors, and community partners, the South Seattle College Foundation has expanded access to education through scholarships, program support, and investments in student success. The Foundation continues to build on this legacy by strengthening community connections and supporting programs that meet the evolving needs of South Seattle College students.
Milestones