Professor Emeritus Ed Grissing (pictured above, outside of his old office) recently returned to Monroe Community College to reconnect with the campus where he dedicated 36 years to teaching Engineering Science and Physics.
While much felt familiar, from foundational courses and student activities to even some of the office furniture, one thing stood out as unchanged: the most rewarding part of the job is working with students and helping them realize their potential.
In retirement, Ed is continuing that commitment by establishing the Grissing Family Endowed Scholarship for Engineering Science and Physics, which will support its first MCC student this academic year. The scholarship celebrates a family deeply connected to MCC: Ed's late wife, Terry, and both of their daughters are graduates of the College. Created as a meaningful way for the family to give back, the scholarship extends Ed’s legacy of supporting students and will help future generations of aspiring physicists and engineers pursue their goals at MCC.
Interested in creating a lasting legacy of your own? The MCC Foundation welcomes the opportunity to explore the possibilities with you. Email Emily Cohen (ecohen15@monroecc.edu), associate vice president of development for the MCC Foundation or call 585.685.6317.
Lace up and join us for the 20th Annual MCC Foundation 5K Walk/Run for Scholarships on Saturday, October 3, at Monroe Community College’s Brighton Campus!
For two decades, this family-friendly tradition has brought the MCC community together in support of student scholarships. Whether you run, walk or stroll alongside family and friends, every step is a chance to celebrate and support MCC student success.
Onsite registration begins at 9:00 AM, and the race starts at 10:00 AM. Participants can enjoy a scenic, USATF-certified course through campus, pre- and post-race activities, lunch and scholarship drawings totaling $5,000.
We're sending a special thank you to Tailgate Party Sponsors Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC and NBT Bank for their continued commitment to MCC students.
Come celebrate 20 years of moving student success forward! Learn more or make a gift at www.monroecc.edu/go/5K. Questions? Contact Katie Spohr '90 (kspohr1@monroecc.edu), donor engagement manager, at or 585.685.6351.
Meet the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2026On Wednesday, November 18, 2026, the Monroe Community College Foundation will celebrate outstanding leadership, service and achievement at the 35th Annual Salute to Excellence, where Lori A. Van Dusen, founder and CEO of LVW Advisors, will receive the Salute to Excellence Award. For more than 27 years, Lori has strengthened MCC through her leadership, generosity and steadfast belief in the transformative power of an MCC education.
We are also proud to welcome LaShay D. Harris ’03, Rev. Julius D. Jackson, Jr. ’96, Mark J. Pastorella ’90, and Kristin M. Scheible ’91, M.D. into the MCC Alumni Hall of Fame.
LaShay D. Harris ’03 is a trailblazing public servant, educator and community advocate who made history as Monroe County’s first African American female paramedic and today serves as vice president of Rochester City Council. Throughout her career, she has championed education, workforce development and pathways to success, including helping establish an MCC scholarship for aspiring paramedics.
Rev. Julius D. Jackson, Jr. ’96 began his higher education journey at MCC and has gone on to dedicate his life to faith, service and strengthening the greater Rochester community. Now senior pastor of the United Church of Pittsford, his impact can be seen and felt throughout the region, including through his advocacy to preserve and elevate Frederick Douglass’ legacy.
Mark J. Pastorella ’90 turned an education at MCC into a lifelong commitment to the College, spending 26 years with the MCC Foundation strengthening philanthropic support for students. Since retiring in 2025, he has begun a new chapter as an entrepreneur and owner of Left-A-Mark Logistics, Inc.
Kristin M. Scheible, ’91, M.D. is an internationally recognized physician-scientist and professor at the University of Rochester whose work advances research and care for infants and children. Remembering MCC as “foundational and life-changing,” she continues to give back by creating meaningful research and mentorship opportunities for MCC students pursuing careers in medicine and science.
To make your reservation or for more information about the Salute to Excellence, visit the Salute to Excellence website. Opportunities for underwriting support are available.
Questions? Please contact Kerry Niessing (kniessing@monroecc.edu), assistant director of donor engagement, or call 585.685.6385.