Lone Star College Foundation aims to change lives through financial assistance and quality educational programs achieved by building relationships and partnerships throughout the community. This mission has helped more than 20,000 students, like Zori Tongogaro (pictured), reach their academic goals. 

“Lone Star College Foundation’s goal is to provide scholarships, support programs and build communities,” said Gennifer Kelly, MBA, LSC Foundation Board Chair.  

At age 17, Tongogaro left his family and friends in Jamaica to expand his educational opportunities. His journey led him to the United States and Lone Star College-Tomball’s doorstep. 

“Jamaica is a small island, and there are a limited number of universities, so the potential for scholarships was limited,” said Tongogaro. “Choosing to move to the United States and attending Lone Star College-Tomball has motivated me to become a strong individual and helped to establish my personal philosophy, ‘my success depends on me.’” 

Tongogaro immigrated to the U.S. in 2004 with different ideas about his academic future. He initially thought community colleges offered a third-level education, but LSC-Tomball changed his mind. 

“Lone Star College-Tomball has shaped my entire life and has caused me to excel in all areas of college life,” he said. “I was able to study and work, which allowed me to put into practice what I learned in the management and accounting classes.” 

LSC Foundation awards more than $2 million in scholarships to students each year. The funds help to remove the financial barriers students face while focusing on their education and future careers. Tongogaro was one of the LSC student finalists who received a $1,000 Chancellor’s Essay Scholarship in 2006. 

“Lone Star College Foundation offers tuition scholarships, emergency aid relief, textbook funds and other monetary assistance to ensure those who want an education can afford one without significant debt,” said Kelly. “We are grateful to our generous donors whose support builds stronger communities for the next generation.” 

Tongogaro graduated with an associate of arts degree from LSC-Tomball in 2007. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting and a Master of Professional Accountancy degree in Accounting from Stephen F. Austin State University. Tongogaro is a CPA and is the Advisory Manager at Deloitte & Touche LLP.