H. Hovnanian Family Foundation Featured in Ocean County College Foundation Newsletter

We’re honored to be highlighted in the Ocean County College Foundation’s “Life & Legacy” newsletter for our continued support of student success and innovation in education.
 

A Message From The OCC Foundation

There’s something special about the start of a new semester. It’s in the air – anticipation, new possibilities, the sense that great things lie ahead.

That same energy drives us every day at the Foundation.

Walking across campus these first few weeks, seeing students reconnect and greeting the newest members of our OCC family, I felt the same sense of belonging that surely inspires our supporters to give. Ocean County College is part of our community and touches the lives of so many. Supporting OCC means investing in our own future.

This year brings an especially meaningful milestone as our Legacy campaign reaches an incredible $5 million in gifts and pledges. It’s a true testament to what we can achieve together, from capital projects like the Grunin Center Lobby Expansion, now underway, to creating new opportunities for members of our community to connect – the Viking 5K Fun Run, impactful Blauvelt speakers, our holiday concert featuring Chris Botti, and so much more.

As we look forward to the exciting moments ahead, I can’t wait to welcome all of the members of our OCC family, old and new, including generous partners like the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation, who make our work possible. In short, thank you for all that you do to enrich our college community.

Kenneth J. Malagiere 
Executive Director

A Legacy of Giving: Hovnanian Foundation Transforms Health Education at OCC

Founded in 1986 by philanthropists Hirair and Anna Hovnanian, the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of Ocean County College (OCC) and education across New Jersey. With over $97 million in charitable giving, the Foundation’s impact includes a transformative $3.75 million gift in 2018 that funded scholarships, workforce grants, and the construction of the H. Hovnanian Health Sciences Building. This 47,000-square-foot facility, featuring advanced simulation labs and state-of-the-art technology, has elevated OCC’s nursing program—achieving NCLEX scores above national averages, 100% job placement, and eight-year reaccreditation with no deficiencies. Under the leadership of Hirair’s daughter, Edele Hovnanian, the Foundation continues its mission to advance health, education, and community development throughout the region.

In 2019, the OCC Foundation Board honored The Hovnanian Foundation with its Humanitarian Award, noting:

“Ocean County has been fortunate to have the vision, talent and generosity of Hirair Hovnanian play a part in the shaping of Ocean County’s past, present and future.”

Then & Now

The H. Hovnanian Health Sciences Building is on the brink of a new expansion which will bring even more opportunities for students in Ocean County. The renovations, scheduled to begin this fall, will enable Ocean County College to offer new major programs in high-demand health care careers. Watch the OCC Foundation web page for updates!

“The OCC Foundation Legacy Campaign partners the long-standing support of our donors with the future aspirations of our students, ensuring Ocean County College will always be a pillar of educational advancement in our community.” — OCC President Pamela Monaco