The Irvine Valley College (IVC) Foundation has received a $50,000 gift from Irvine Company in support of the college’s Teacher Preparation Pathway (TPP), a collaborative initiative designed to create a clear, supportive route from community college to the teaching profession.
The gift directly supports students pursuing careers in education by removing financial barriers, expanding hands-on learning opportunities, and strengthening program infrastructure. Notably, $10,000 of the donation establishes a new Teacher Preparation Funding Program, creating a sustainable source of support for future generations of IVC teaching students.
“This Irvine Company gift is a powerful investment in both our students and our community,” said Donna King, Professor and Chair of IVC Human Development Department. “TPP is built on access, mentorship, and real-world experience. This funding will strengthen each of those components especially work-based learning, so our students graduate confident, credentialed, and classroom-ready.”
The Teacher Preparation Pathway simplifies what can often be a complex journey into the teaching profession by serving as a centralized hub for students. Through the TPP, students connect with academic and career counseling, faculty mentoring, fieldwork and classroom experience, work-based learning and apprenticeship opportunities, and clearly defined transfer pathways to four-year universities. The pathway is guided by a cross-functional team of faculty, deans, counselors, community partners, and student representatives, ensuring strong alignment with both educational requirements and workforce needs.
“Teachers shape the future, and this generous $50,000 gift allows IVC to better prepare students who are passionate about entering the classroom,” said IVC President John Hernandez. “Irvine Company’s support reflects a shared commitment to educational excellence, workforce development, and long-term community impact.”
Irvine Company’s contribution supports students at every stage of their journey such as covering required testing, clearances, permits, and credentialing costs; expanding access to professional development and conferences; hands-on work-based learning and apprenticeships; enhancing the Teacher Preparation Center through speakers, supplies, and special projects; as well as establishing an endowment to provide long-term, ongoing support for the program.
For more information on giving opportunities, please contact the IVC Foundation at ivcfoundation@ivc.edu or call 949-451-5290.