At Rogue Community College, we believe in the power of education and support our students every day in ways both big and small. RCC has a long history of faculty and staff who not only dedicate themselves to student success but choose to strengthen that impact through charitable giving. These employees are known as Rogue Heroes.
The “Rogue Hero Campaign” started in 2011 and has continued to grow over the years. In just the past five years, staff members have contributed over $135,000 to:
- Fund scholarships
- Support special projects
- Empower student clubs
- Provide emergency assistance for food, housing, and other needs
Every dollar donated, whether it’s a one-time gift or a monthly donation through payroll deduction, goes directly towards helping students succeed!
The RCC Foundation is so grateful for all our Rogue Heroes that make such a big difference, and we’re excited to recognize them. That’s why we launched our Rogue Hero Spotlight in January 2026.
This month, we are highlighting Rogue Hero Verne Underwood.
Years at RCC
30
Department and Title
Humanities Department Chair
What made you decide to participate for the first time?
Easy answer- our students. This is my 30th year teaching at RCC, and many things have changed since I first started back in 1997 – the year we moved into Jackson County. But the one constant has always been our student-centered approach. We have always put students first, always centered our decisions on student success, and the RCC Foundation is a central part of this mission.
What makes you proud to be an employee donor?
I want my students to succeed, to earn the credentials they’re seeking, find the career that calls them, and meet their full potential. The great barrier for most of them is not the difficulty of their classes, the weight of their weekly homework, or the drive to succeed; it’s the cost. College is expensive, and our Foundation centers its giving on student scholarships, helping where it’s most needed.
How do you feel employee giving contributes to student success?
I think every employee should give to the RCC Foundation, even if it’s only a few dollars a month, because when the Foundation looks for support from outside funders, our employee giving is often a critical part of any grant application: what percentage of your own employees contribute to the Foundation? This should be at or close to 100%.
What would you say to a colleague who’s considering donating?
Don’t consider; just do it. Start small if you have to, but get on the bus.
Joining is simple and makes a real difference. Whether it’s $5 once or $10+ monthly, your gift supports RCC students working toward a better future.
Become a Rogue Hero and support students as they build their future!