Peggy and Vernon Gross Memorial

This scholarship was established to honor the memories of Peggy and Vernon Gross. It is awarded to a student who interested in environmental issues, with special attention to someone interested in birding.

Peggy Gross was employed at Solano Community College as an assistant to the Social Science Division and later to the Occupational-Technical Division. A graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, Peggy was a Phi Beta Kappa scholar who loved the environment and was noted for her skills in those areas. She was an active member of the Audubon Society.

Vernon Gross attended the University of the Pacific and the University of California at Berkeley. He worked for 36 years in the Vallejo School District as a Spanish teacher, Vice Principal of Franklin Junior High School, and Principal of Springstowne Junior High School and Vallejo High School. He was active in the Lions Club, Elks Club, S.I.R.S 88, the Vallejo Symphony Board and the Vallejo High School Alumni Association.

As a teenager during World War II, Vernon joined the Army Air Force and became a pilot. He served in the Air Force reserves from early 50?s until he retired. He was also a squadron commander of the Civil Air patrol, searching for downed planes in northern California.
Vernon and Peggy Gross had two sons Paul and Carl Gross. The scholarship was originally established by Vernon Gross to honor the memory of his wife. When Vernon died in 2010, the scholarship was renamed to honor Vernon as well.