A fundraising concert at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2070 in Monrovia raised money for Citrus College’s Veterans and Pride Centers on Sept. 20, bringing together campus leaders, alumni, and community members.
The event featured live performances by the bands Dysphonics and My Pet Rock. A $10 ticket donation went toward programs that support student veterans and LGBTQ+ students at Citrus College.
Citrus College Superintendent/President Dr. Greg Schulz and Trustee Steven Bluitt Flowers attended the concert to show support for the initiative.
Professor Bruce Solheim, who organized the event and performed with his band, said he wanted to highlight the connection between the two centers.
“The Veterans Center and the Pride Center are natural allies,” Solheim said. “When I served in the military in the 1970s and ’80s, people were forced out for being gay. Seeing that made me want to make sure our students know they have support and allies. I’m hoping one day we’ll see a permanent Pride Center, maybe even alongside the Veterans Center.”
Citrus alumni Rhonda Lentz and Heather Felings, along with community member Jennifer Hogopian, also attended to support the fundraiser.
“I’m here to support the cause and to watch my good friend Bruce perform in his band,” Lentz said. “We’re friends with one of the organizers, and we also came to help decorate before the show,” Hogopian said.
The concert brought together students, alumni, faculty, and community members in support of Citrus College programs. Solheim, who has taught at the college for 28 years, said the event reflected the school’s community spirit.
“The students keep me going,” he said. “Whether it’s music, writing plays, or teaching, I’m proud to be part of Citrus College.”
