CCA President Walks 71 Miles for Student Aid
Community College of Aurora leader Mordecai Brownlee trekked along the High Line Canal to raise funds for student needs.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Financial Aid
Live Poll
Should community colleges rely on fundraising to provide essential student emergency aid?
Community College of Aurora President Mordecai Brownlee completed a 71-mile walk along the High Line Canal this week. The initiative aims to raise $40,000 to replenish the school's emergency student aid fund.
Why it matters
The fundraiser seeks to bridge a financial gap left by expiring federal pandemic relief funds, which previously supported students struggling with rent and food. These resources are critical for maintaining enrollment for the thousands of students who rely on financial assistance.
The college foundation emergency fund grew from $8,000 in 2022-23 to $55,000 in 2025-26. Last year, 141 students received individual emergency grants ranging from $50 to $500.
The players
Mordecai Brownlee
He serves as the president of the Community College of Aurora and spearheaded this multi-day fundraising event.
Community College of Aurora
This Aurora institution provides higher education to 13,900 students and manages an emergency aid program.
The details
The college currently serves 13,900 students, with 43% qualifying for federal Pell grants. Recent internal surveys indicate that 64% of respondents face food insecurity, while 20% have missed classes due to transportation barriers.
Timeline
President Mordecai Brownlee walked 71 miles from Monday to Wednesday, October 19-21, 2026.
Culture Shift
This effort follows the trend of educational institutions independently sourcing funds to address student basic needs in the wake of the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds. Colleges are increasingly relying on private foundations to bridge gaps in support once covered by federal programs.
Students facing financial hardships such as food insecurity or transit challenges may apply for emergency grant assistance to help cover rent or transportation. This program aims to keep these students enrolled by providing critical, immediate financial support.
The takeaway
The college's reliance on private donations highlights the growing necessity for targeted aid as traditional pandemic-era federal support fades. Students should contact the Office of Student Advocacy for details on current application processes for emergency funds.
What happens next
Mordecai Brownlee intends to continue the annual walk as a fundraising event for at least two more years.
Further reading
For more information on support options, see the Financial Aid section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chalkbeat.
Live Poll
Should community colleges rely on fundraising to provide essential student emergency aid?
