New Legacy Fund Honors Kevin Roe’s Lifelong Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Community Health

Written By Jason Raby

SAN JOSÉ, Calif. — The family of Kevin Roe has established the Kevin Roe Legacy Fund at Valley Health Foundation to carry forward his enduring commitment to equity, inclusion, and the well-being of LGBTQ+ communities at San José State University and across Santa Clara County.

Roe, a longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff at San José State University (SJSU), had envisioned a dedicated scholarship to affirm and uplift LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education. Following his sudden passing in May 2025, his sisters, Kathleen Roe and Dilan Roe, have brought that vision to life.

The Kevin Roe Legacy Fund will provide support to:

  • Award scholarships for LGBTQ+ students at SJSU

  • Champion campus and community partners advancing health equity

  • Address stigma, discrimination, and disparities affecting LGBTQ+ populations

  • Promote inclusive learning and living environments in Santa Clara County

Aligned with Valley Health Foundation’s mission to advance health equity countywide, the Fund will help build a future where every student, regardless of identity, has the opportunity to learn, contribute, and thrive.

“Kevin believed in creating spaces where everyone could flourish,” said Kathleen Roe. “With this fund, we are ensuring that his dedication to dignity, belonging, and justice continues to shape lives for generations.”

The first scholarships and awards will be announced in April 2026.

How to Give
Donations can be made on the Kevin Roe Legacy Fund giving page. Contributions will directly support initiatives that reflect Kevin’s values and vision. Visit valleyhealthfoundation.org/kevin-roe to learn more or make a gift.

Media Contact

Kathleen Roe
Co-Director, Kevin Roe Legacy Fund
KevinRoeLegacyFund@gmail.com
925-915-0211

About Valley Health Foundation
Valley Health Foundation (VHF) is the nonprofit partner to Santa Clara Valley Healthcare, the public safety-net health system for Santa Clara County. VHF mobilizes philanthropy to advance health equity, expand access to care, and improve community wellbeing for all who live, work, and learn in the county. Through partnerships with donors, community organizations, and public institutions, Valley Health Foundation invests in programs that reduce disparities and build a healthier future for every resident. Learn more at valleyhealthfoundation.org.

About Kevin Roe
Kevin Roe was a beloved family member, educator, activist, and friend. Like a comet, he blazed across the 63 years of his life with purpose, direction, courage, and light. Kevin cared deeply about the health of gay men and extended that commitment across communities, identities, and backgrounds.

The Kevin Roe Legacy Fund will support, recognize, and amplify the contributions of queer public health students, activists, educators, and community leaders. Your donation will help grow our annual scholarship and award program, creating healthier communities for all. 

Jason Raby