Community colleges serve as vital centers of learning, where each generation’s educational achievements often lead to contributions that benefit the broader community. The Hillier Family exemplifies this generational impact, having made significant contributions to Grays Harbor College since its early days.
The Hillier name is well-known among GHC alumni, but the depth of the Hillier family’s legacy is truly remarkable. Originally, the Hillier Union Building (HUB) was named in honor of Dean of Faculty Alfred J. Hillier, also known as A.J. Hillier, renowned for his leadership in history and for guiding the college’s forensic (debate) squads to success. His sons, Dwight and Ralph, also attended GHC.
In 1961, Ralph Hillier honored his father by establishing the Bertha and A.J. Hillier Scholarship with a full-tuition award of $150. Sadly, Alfred J. Hillier passed away just 12 days later. The family took on the responsibility of funding the scholarship annually.
As tuition costs increased, the family embarked on a fundraising drive to endow the scholarship. By 1996, the tuition had risen to $1,400, prompting a concerted effort to secure the scholarship’s future. This drive continued for 25 years, culminating in the endowment surpassing $300,000, with a final contribution made to celebrate Ralph’s 90th birthday. Fred Hillier, the youngest son of Bertha and A.J., and his wife Ann played a pivotal role in this effort. Their son, Dr. John Hillier, is a science professor at GHC and serves on the Foundation’s scholarship review committee.
“The Bertha and A.J. Hillier Scholarship is one of our longest-running scholarships,” notes Foundation Executive Director Lisa J. Smith. “This endowed scholarship secures the Hillier family’s commitment to supporting deserving students for generations to come.”
Although the original Hillier Union Building (HUB) was eventually torn down, the Hillier legacy continues. The college has honored Alfred J. Hillier’s memory by naming the event center in the tulalW Student Center after him, ensuring that his impact and the family’s dedication to GHC endure.
The family behind the Bertha and A.J. Hillier Scholarship. From the top: 1944 photo of A.J. and Bertha Hillier and their sons, Ralph, Dwight and Fred. Bottom left: History Professor A.J. Hillier and the many forensic awards his students won. Middle: Alfred James (A.J.) Hillier Top: Today, GHC Science Professor and scholarship reviewer, Dr. John Hillier (right) and his brother Mark.