Mrs. Kathie Valentine

The D. Rene Valentine Memorial Scholarship was established in 1999 by his spouse, Kathie Valentine. The funds to establish this scholarship were graciously provided by family and friends in honor of Mr. Valentine. The D. Rene Valentine Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a participant of a Jefferson Community College intercollegiate athletic team, who plans to pursue both their academic and athletic interests at a four year institute the same year as the award.

Mr. Valentine was born in October 1936 in Morris, NY. He was the oldest of 7 sons born to Durward and Leah Hoag Valentine. A lover of athletics, Rene began his teaching career in 1957 at Chenango High School in Binghamton, NY. He then went on to teach at Broome County College from 1959 to 1964. In 1964, Mr. Valentine held three positions at Jefferson Community College. He was the first athletic director at JCC and was also the director for physical education and head basketball coach. He built from the ground up the athletics department, mentoring the first ever full-time athletic staff and coaches.

In 1968, Rene changed gears and became the Dean of Continuing Education for Jefferson Community College. Rene was a pivotal influence for the creation of the athletic, criminal justice, and hospitality and tourism programs.

Mr. Valentine was not only a staple at Jefferson Community College, he was also active in his community. He volunteered for many years at the Jefferson Rehabilitation Center and later became president of its board of directors. He was also a former president of the board of education for Sackets Harbor Central School.

In January 1992, Mr. Valentine retired from JCC as Dean of Continuing Education, after 28 years of dedicated and life-changing service to the college. He enjoyed time with his wife Kathie, his daughter, two sons, three stepsons, and three grandchildren. Rene was an avid hunter, fisherman, and spent many years traveling with his wife and working with her in their small craft business.

The Jefferson Community College Foundation is forever grateful to Mrs. Kathie Valentine for establishing this scholarship in memory of a man who did so much for the College, its students, and community. D. Rene Valentine has left a legacy of commitment and dedication through this scholarship. He continues to influence and transform student’s lives to this day.