Clifford G. Leong Scholarship Endowment

Established in 2017 to provide scholarships for deserving students currently enrolled at West Valley College and intending to pursue higher education in science and mathematics.

The Clifford G. Leong endowment has been founded to honor a man who leads by example, who embodied the spirit of giving, and who enthusiastically encourages all who cross his path.

I was lucky enough to be one of those blessed by Cliff's unselfish generosity. As a headstrong youth, I did not fully appreciate that gifts without price tags are the most valuable gifts you will ever receive. Cliff freely and unreservedly encouraged me not only through high school but also through my time at West Valley College and ultimately to my graduation at UCLA. It's because of Cliff's selfless kindness and encouragement that makes me want to give back like he has to so many others. Thank you, Cliff, for the support you showed me 20 years ago. You made me a better person just by knowing you.

Clifford Leong grew up in Watsonville, California, and has resided in Saratoga for the past 50 years. He attended the University of Hawaii and the University of California, Berkeley, and received his doctorate of optometry from the Southern California School of Optometry. Cliff was a senior partner of his optometric group practice in Campbell for over 30 years and continues his 40+ year association with the Gardner Family Health Foundation in Santa Clara County, whose mission is to provide eye care for underserved populations. He is an emeritus fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, a life member in the American Optometric Association, and a member of the Santa Clara County Optometric Society. Additionally, Cliff is a member of the Campbell Kiwanis Club and was a major Westmont High School Booster Club board member for many years.

To promote and continue higher education in science and mathematics is to honor Clifford Leong and is the founding principle behind providing financial assistance with this endowment.

The Clifford Leong endowment has been created to provide financial assistance to those interested in higher education in the field of science and mathematics. To truly honor Cliff, my wish is for recipients of this "gift" to one day give back to those on a similar journey in whatever way that might be.