As of Thursday, September 29, 2022, Norco College is the permanent home of the sculpture Freedom, thanks to local artist and philanthropist Frank Heyming. Freedom is the second art installation donated by Heyming to the Riverside Community College District (RCCD).
“This distinguished sculpture will grace the landscape of our Veterans Resource Center, greeting every person who walks through these doors seeking services for decades to come,” shared Dr. Michael Collins, Vice President of Business services, on behalf of Dr. Monica Green, President of Norco College.
According to Heyming, Freedom is about “all the freedoms we share as Americans...those who died to defend her today.” The inspiration came from an American classic, “God Bless the USA,” by Lee Greenwood.
An official unveiling held at the Norco College Veterans Resource Center gave light to Freedom with over 60 attendees present. The guest list included District and college officials, college employees, board members, students, community members, veterans, and the artist, Frank Heyming and his family.
RCCD Chancellor Isaac, who could not attend, shared, "This second art installation is a reminder to patrons everywhere. Freedom comes at a price and is immensely valuable to everyone. Frank Heyming did it again."
Heyming has a long history with RCCD, as his wife Lucy attended one of its three colleges, Riverside City College (RCC), where she wrote for the school paper. This connection exemplifies why the RCCD Foundation strives to maintain exceptional partnerships with its alum base and the community. "Donors like Mr. Heyming are important to the fabric of our community, and gifts like these add value to our academic institutions," said Launa Wilson, RCCD Foundation Executive Director.
Norco College, the Riverside Community College District, and the RCCD Foundation remain thankful and humbled by the generous gift from Frank Heyming. His original art sculpture is now a part of local history. RCCD and Norco College are proud to be a part of the Heyming art movement.