Couple Recognized for a Difference Made in At-Risk Youth

Mark and Lori Edwards, long-time supporters of Cal State San Bernardino, especially for its foster youth students, were honored as the Philanthropists of the Year by the Inland Empire Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The couple was recognized during a luncheon held at the Ontario Airport Hotel on Nov. 20 to celebrate National Philanthropy Day. “I’m delighted for Mark and Lori. They truly deserve this honor not only for their great service to Cal State San Bernardino and our students, but also for the tremendous volunteer work they do in the community,” said university President Tomás D. Morales. “We are proud to call them important members of our CSUSB family.” Mark Edwards is currently vice president of the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation Board, where he has served since 2007. He has also been involved in the community for a number of years, supporting the San Bernardino Symphony along with the San Bernardino Area Chamber of Commerce, the Business Development Association of the Inland Empire and the San Bernardino Leadership program. Lori Edwards is active with the American Association of Diabetes Educators, where she regularly gives her time, talent and knowledge at community events that educate the public about diabetes. The Edwards are also strong supporters of their church through their generous gifts and time. However, their passion lies in supporting at-risk youth, specifically CSUSB foster youth students. The Edwards have made a commitment to not only financially support the Educational Opportunity Program’s Renaissance Scholars program for foster youth at CSUSB, but to also expose these students to a variety of enrichment activities. Since 2007, the Edwards have donated funds, gifts-in-kind and cultural experiences for nearly 40 of the 60 foster youth served through the program. They have taken these students on trips that included evenings at the San Bernardino Symphony, a visit to the Getty Villa in Malibu and a student favorite, Ontario Reign hockey games at the Citizen’s Business Bank Arena, with use of the bank’s private suite. What makes these trips special is that the Edwards make every event enjoyable, providing lunch or dinner beforehand while getting to know each of the students personally. They have also included the EOP Renaissance Scholars program as a beneficiary in their estate plan. According to Veronica Amerson, director of Cal State San Bernardino’s EOP, Mark and Lori Edwards “have served as mentors, supporters and advisers to students interested in specific areas of study, and have given of their personal time to provide guidance and expertise. The Edwards are a remarkable couple who don’t just give monetarily but portray in their actions a devotion to providing access and support to disadvantaged youth who want to make a better life for themselves.” The Edwards join the ranks of CSUSB supporters who have been named Philanthropists of the Year. Previous winners include Patricia and Neale Perkins, and James and Judy Watson.