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The Charles A. Peterson Endowment was established to honor the life of Charles A. Peterson, a well-regarded VVC administrator from 1975-1996, died on November 10, 2001 in an automobile accident in Victorville. Peterson was born on September 5, 1938 in Amery, Wisconsin. He earned both a BS and an MS in Forest Management from Montana State University and a PhD in Forest Management from Oregon State University. He began his career at Victor Valley College as an Associate Dean of Instruction for Occupational Education and eventually became the college's Executive Vice President, retiring in 1996 as the Vice President of Future Development and Technology. Upon his retirement, Peterson began writing grants to help St. Mary Medical Center and drove a van to help people in need of healthcare overcome transportation problems, and was part of an organization known as Future Search which was dedicated to improving local health care. Peterson also enjoyed taking pictures of Native American petroglyphs and pictograhs.

The David Kniss Memorial Scholarship honors the remarkable legacy of David Kniss, a life-long resident of Victorville and dedicated educator who touched countless lives. Dave's journey exemplified passion, perseverance, and service. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from Cal State San Bernardino, he returned to Victor Valley High School, where he spent 35 years teaching English Literature and coaching basketball — roles he loved deeply. Known for his devotion to his students and his love for literature, Dave earned numerous accolades, including High Desert Teacher of the Year.

This scholarship supports Victor Valley College students who embody Dave’s values of hard work, academic excellence, and community impact, ensuring his legacy lives on through the next generation of learners and leaders.