DeVore Family Memorial Scholarship

Applicants must be accepted to a four-year college or university for the coming Fall term and have a minimum cumulative SWC GPA of 3.0 or greater. Applicants will also be asked to submit an essay on the student’s core values. Priority will go to students with the most financial need, which is determined by data on the student’s current FAFSA or Dream Act Application.

In 1962 Chester S. DeVore became the founding President/Superintendent of Southwestern College where he supervised the formation of a new college, including the development of academic programs, campus planning and construction. After 21 years in this role, Mr. DeVore retired, at which time the stadium at Southwestern College was named in his honor. Throughout his life, Mr. DeVore modeled and taught five core values: a positive attitude; a strong work ethic; teamwork; sportsmanship; and leadership. This annual scholarship is established in his memory. Chester S. DeVore passed away January 7, 2011 at the age of 92. He was a respected patriarch, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and an accomplished coach and educator who always remained dedicated to his Country, his community and his family. Mr. DeVore graduated from Chaffey High School in 1937 and Chaffey Community College in 1939, lettering in football, basketball, and baseball. He then enrolled at San Diego State College where he lettered in basketball and was a member of the 1940—1941 NAIA National Championship Basketball Team. After receiving his B.A. in 1942, Mr. DeVore served his Country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in World War II. Fighting alongside members of the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, he saw action in the Pacific Theater of war during the campaigns of Bouganville, Emirau, Guam, and Okinawa. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his gallantry and left the U.S. Marine Corps having achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Upon returning from the war, Mr. DeVore began a rewarding career in education. He found passion in coaching and teaching youth, and worked at Chula Vista High School from 1947–1955 as a coach, teacher, counselor, vice principal and principal from 1956–1961. Mr. DeVore was one of the most successful high school football coaches in San Diego County history, guiding Chula Vista to a 40–3 win-loss record over his last four seasons from 1951–1955.