During his lifetime, Montgomery County businessman William E. Cross always believed community colleges played an important role in helping students improve their lives. In October, the foundation established by Mr. Cross made a $20,000 grant to Montgomery College that will provide scholarships to students with financial need. The William E. Cross Foundation Scholarship will benefit veterans pursuing any major or other students majoring in business, computer science, paralegal studies, or criminal justice.

The Cross family established the Cider Barrel Mobile Home Park on Route 355 in Germantown, Md., not far from the College's Germantown Campus. The family also sold apple cider at the red, white, and blue-striped "barrel" that became a fixture to passing motorists. The mobile home park closed in 2003 but the barrel still stands tall just off Route 355. Mr. Cross passed away in 2010.

Arthur B. Brisker, vice president of the William E. Cross Foundation, remembers how much Mr. Cross valued the work of community colleges. "He went to a very small college in the South with about 3,000 students," Brisker explained. "He and I had many discussions concerning the role of colleges like Montgomery College and how the College trains students to acquire skills that will lead to their obtaining employment so they can become meaningful contributors to society."

The William E. Cross Foundation Scholarship will be awarded during the 2012-2013 academic year. To date, nine students have received awards.

"We are grateful to the William E. Cross Foundation for supporting Montgomery College students through this new scholarship fund," Montgomery College President DeRionne Pollard said. "It sets a great example that Mr. Cross, a local businessman, valued the College's mission so highly. Our students will benefit from the legacy he leaves behind."