Dr. Samuel M. Ciccati, the second president of Cuyamaca College and a major East County education philanthropist, died July 2 at his home in Coronado after a long illness, according to East County Magazine. He was 90.

East County Magazine reported that Ciccati donated more than $1.6 million last month to support Cuyamaca College students, the largest single donation in the history of the Foundation for Grossmont & Cuyamaca Colleges.

Ciccati’s path to education leadership began after he moved to San Diego County from Ohio as a young man. He later attended San Diego City College, San Diego State University and United States International University before building a career in higher education.

For Santee residents, Cuyamaca College remains one of the closest community college campuses and a key part of East County’s workforce and transfer pathway. Gifts directed to student support can ripple across families throughout Santee, Rancho San Diego, El Cajon and nearby communities.

East County Magazine credited the Foundation for Grossmont & Cuyamaca Colleges for details about Ciccati’s gifts and legacy.