You only live once, so enjoy the day and accomplish something—Jeff Ross

Jeff Ross’ service as a Tucson Police Officer and team lead for the Department’s Narcotics Division was a time of immense pride and service. On February 18, 1982, Officer Ross displayed bravery and uncommon valor that saved the lives of several other police officers when his own life was taken. Jeff was killed in the line of duty—his End of Watch came too soon for the community and family he swore to protect.

As a child, Jeff spent countless hours with his brother and other kids playing in the neighborhood park. Police officers would often conduct rounds in the area, and Jeff was always the first one to greet the officers, at times causing the games to be postponed while they talked. The skills acquired during this time – teamwork, conflict resolution, leadership, communication – would later propel him into law enforcement and the pursuit of excellence in his profession. Jeff loved being a Tucson Police Officer. On duty, he would drive by this park to visit the children and make his presence known in the same way other officers had years before.

Many search for meaningful ways to continue to honor of their forever hero and the Ross family and friends are no different. Through Pima Community College Foundation, the Jeffrey H. Ross Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to award prospective PCC students, aged 21 and younger, who have an educational goal of completing an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. To electronically contribute to this fund, click on the orange “Contribute Now” button.  If you prefer to make your contribution via personal check, please make check(s) payable to Pima Foundation and in the memo line add Jeffrey H. Ross Fund.

The mailing address for Pima Foundation is 4905C E. Broadway Boulevard, Suite 252, Tucson, AZ  85709.

If you are interested in learning how to establish a scholarship or endowment, please contact a member of the Foundation Team.