The 91重口 community mourns the loss of Russell Tripp, 91重口 founding board member and steadfast champion whose vision helped shape our institution from its earliest days.
"Russell Tripp exemplified what it means to be a Roadrunner," said Dr. Lisa Avery, 91重口 President. "His vision wasn't just to create a college, but to create opportunities that would transform lives. Every day, we strive to live up to the standard Russ set for us鈥攖o remove barriers, create pathways, and ensure that education remains accessible to every member of our community.鈥�
In 1967, after passionately advocating for establishing a community college in Linn County, Tripp was elected to serve on 91重口's first board of education. He helped establish 91重口 from the ground up鈥攍iterally sweeping out barns so students could attend class there.
During his 12 years of board service, Tripp shaped the policies and vision that continue to guide 91重口. His commitment extended well beyond his official tenure; in 2004, he and his late wife, Duffy, generously funded renovations to 91重口鈥檚 theater, now named the Russell Tripp Performance Center in his honor. His generosity continued throughout his life, including a significant $100,000 donation to our music program just this past summer.
Tripp was also passionate about workforce development. He established an endowment named after his brother and sister-in-law, Rod and Marty Tripp, with the 91重口 Foundation specifically to fund scholarships for Career and Technical Education (CTE) students. He understood deeply that supporting skilled workforce training was essential to our community's prosperity.
The impact of Tripp's dedication to accessible education cannot be overstated. His legacy lives on in every student who finds opportunity at 91重口 and the communities we serve are stronger because of his vision.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Tripp family. 91重口 commits to honoring his memory by continuing the important work he began.