Rock Valley College Trustee Bob Trojan honored as Philanthropist of the Year

Via news release
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD  — Bob Trojan, a Rock Valley College trustee and the founder of Rockford Linear Actuation, was honored last week as the Philanthropist of the Year by the Rockford Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

The award was presented Tuesday during the annual Rock Valley College Scholar-Donor Luncheon. It recognizes an individual or family who demonstrates outstanding civic and charitable engagement, exceptional generosity and service to one or more organizations in northern Illinois.

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He was nominated by the Rock Valley College Foundation and Rock River Robotics Off-Season Competition.

“Bob’s heart for our region’s youth and adult learners shines brightly and is something to celebrate,” Brittany Freiberg, Rock Valley College Foundation chief development officer, said in a news release. “The RVC Foundation believes Bob’s commitment to eliminating financial barriers for our region’s residents seeking a higher education through both liberal arts and science degrees, but also those seeking a rewarding career through our technical programs and skilled trades certificates, are what makes Bob stand out as a leader in philanthropy.”

Trojan has established three endowed scholarships for students pursuing careers in engineering advanced technologies and respiratory therapies.

The award also honored Trojan’s late wife, Norma Jean Trojan, who died in November 2021 at age 80 and was also a passionate supporter of educational opportunities.

After her death, Trojan established a memorial scholarship in her name to honor health care workers who cared for her in her later years.

“I’m grateful that my wife, Norma, and I have been able to do the things that we have done,” Trojan said when receiving the award. “We consider it an investment. Not a donation, but an investment in the future of our young kids.”

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In May, the first recipient of the Norma Jean Trojan Scholarship for Respiratory Care will graduate from Rock Valley College.

“That’s my return on my investment — to see the students and appreciate where their paths are going to take them into the future,” Trojan said.