Riverside Unified School District

Tom Hunt was a well-respected and active figure in Riverside, known for his commitment to community service and educational advocacy. He was elected to the Riverside Unified School District Board of Education in 2007 and served with distinction until his passing. His leadership was instrumental in guiding RUSD through numerous challenges and ensuring a focus on student success.

The RUSD Foundation is honoring the legacy and educational leadership of Tom Hunt with the establishment of the Tom Hunt Memorial Scholarship Fund. Contributions to this fund will provide graduating students a scholarship to recognize their civic leadership and service.

Throughout his tenure on the Board, Tom was deeply committed to enhancing student learning experiences by fostering partnerships with local businesses and community leaders. He fervently supported initiatives such as internships, job shadowing, and the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program, which focuses on closing achievement gaps and preparing all students for college and career success. Tom was also instrumental in bringing the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program to RUSD, enriching students' educational opportunities by providing bilingual education. Additionally, he was a strong advocate for expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, ensuring that students are better prepared for future career paths. One of his final acts as a trustee was coordinating the renaming of Highland Elementary to Harada Elementary, in honor of the Harada family and their significant contributions to the community.

Tom earned his associate’s degree from Riverside City College and transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles, where he graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Tom married his high school sweetheart, Geri, and together they raised two daughters, Whitney and Taylore, both proud graduates of RUSD.

Mr. Hunt, an ardent learner and part of the Leadership Riverside Class of 1995, was named the 2024 Art Pick Distinguished Alumni of the Year by the Riverside Chamber of Commerce for his contributions to the organization. He was an active member of the Raincross Group and one of its founding members. Tom received several awards for his service to the community, the two most recent being the 2016 Boy Scouts of America’s Distinguished Citizen Award, and the 2016 NAACP Riverside Branch Roy Wilkins Award.

“ Tom made this world a better place, and me a better leader. Thanks to Tom’s decades of service and leadership, tens of thousands of students live in a better community and have an extraordinary educational experience. Tom reminded us of our history as a community, advocated for our students, and shared innovative ideas and solutions to make Riverside and our schools even better.” Brent Lee, RUSD Board Trustee

Tom Hunt’s legacy of service and dedication to education will live on through the countless lives he touched and the lasting improvements he championed for Riverside schools. He leaves behind a community that is stronger and more vibrant thanks to his tireless efforts.

Your generous donation in memory of Tom Hunt will help us carry forward his legacy of supporting RUSD students, ensuring their success for generations to come. The Tom Hunt Memorial Scholarship Fund will make a lasting impact, empowering students to achieve their dreams and fostering a brighter future. You can be a part of carrying on Tom’s dream for students by making a donation to the Tom Hunt Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Pia Zarate was a beacon of compassion, touching the lives of everyone she encountered with her genuine care and warmth. Her untimely passing at the age of 32 due to cancer deeply saddened her family, the community, and all who knew her within the Riverside Unified School District (RUSD).

Pia's dedication to her students was unparalleled. She believed passionately in the power of education, particularly in fostering a love for science among middle school students. Pia envisioned classrooms filled with engaging science activities that sparked curiosity and inspired young minds to explore the wonders of the world around them.

To honor Pia's memory and perpetuate her dedication to innovative science education, the Pia Zarate Memorial Fund has been established. This fund is a testament to Pia's unwavering commitment to her students' academic and personal growth. Through contributions to the memorial fund, Pia's vision for hands-on, inspiring science education will continue to impact middle school students for years to come.

Pia Zarate's legacy is not only in the classroom but in the hearts of those she inspired. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched, her kindness remembered by colleagues, students, and the wider community. The Pia Zarate Memorial Fund stands as a tribute to her selfless spirit and enduring passion for nurturing young minds.

Join us in celebrating Pia's life and continuing her mission to provide transformative science education experiences. Your support ensures that Pia's legacy of care, dedication, and innovation thrives, making a lasting impact on students and the community she cherished.

The Glenn Allen King Fund was created to honor Mr. King and provide opportunities to RUSD Students.

Glenn King was born on August 15, 1947 in San Diego California. He completed his primary education through the San Diego Unified School District graduating from Abraham Lincoln High School. He earned his BA degree from the University of California Riverside and completed his Masters of School Administration, from the University of La Verne. Glenn had a positive impact on many people through his many roles. He was a teacher, principal, coach, and mentor, however his greatest impact was through his position as Assistant Superintendent over Human Resources for the Riverside Unified School District. He was a passionate educator, helping many people fulfill personal educational goals. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He loved attending family and high school reunions and watching and attending sporting events, especially USC football. He also loved serving at church events, spending time with his four grandchildren and fishing with his brothers.

“Glenn meant so much to so many in Riverside. Mr. King's "kids" were everywhere. I was one of them, although I'd known him my whole life, not just from school. Our families were friends from as early as I can remember. And after my dad left he was the one who stepped up to fill that void as that strong, loving father figure. He was always there to offer wise and tender words of encouragement, or a swift kick in the butt to make sure I stayed on track. I'd have never graduated high school without his voice in my head keeping me focused. Now I'm 56, and it's still his voice I hear in my head, always nudging me in the right direction, and steering clear of trouble.

I know I'm not alone in that connection either. He loved all of "his kids" and I'm here to say we loved him, too. Because of that his spirit, his presence, will live on forever. I just hope we can all make him proud.” Family Friend, Source "Atcheson and Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary" Glenn Allen King

Your generous donation to the Glenn Allen Kind Fund is more than just a gift—it's an investment in the future of our community. By helping us reach our $25,000 goal, you'll be contributing to the creation of an endowed fund that will provide perpetual scholarships to deserving RUSD students. This fund will empower countless young individuals to pursue their dreams, achieve their academic goals, and become the leaders of tomorrow.