Bio

Chet DeVore was born in Redlands, California in 1918. After completing his high school education in Ontario, he attended Chaffey Community College from 1937-39 where he lettered in football, basketball, and baseball. He transferred to San Diego State College where he played basketball as a member of the National Championship Team of 1940-41.

World War II intervened, and he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps in September 1942. Chet participated in the campaigns of Bouganville, Emirau, Guan, and Okinawa, receiving the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and several Unit Citations while attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

In 1946, Chet married Helen Huffer and their children followed, twins John and Janet in 1948 and James and Ann shortly thereafter. Also in 1946, he began his teaching and coaching career at Southwest Junior High School. From 1947- 1955, Chet advanced from teacher/ coach to counselor and finally to Principal of Chula Vista High School serving from 1956-1961.

In 1962, Chet became the President and then Superintendent/ President of Southwestern College and served faithfully until he retired in 1981. College enrollment increased almost tenfold during his Presidency from 1,500 students in 1961 to 14,000 plus in 1981. Through his strong leadership and his financial plan, he guided and developed the academic, vocational, and athletic programs that still exist today. Because of his invaluable contributions to the College, the football stadium hears his name.

Chet has also contributed to his community as a college and high school football and basketball official, as a member of the Kiwanis Club and school accreditations teams, as a volunteer and then Chairman of the SDSU Veteran Memorial for former Aztecs killed in service in WWII, Korea and Vietnam, and as Athletic Commissioner of the Pacific Coast Conference.

Chet DeVore has been elected to Halls of Fame at Chula Vista High School, the California Community College Association, Chaffey Community College, and tonight the Southwestern College Athletic Hall of Fame.