LCC to Purchase Factory Connection Building

Parsons, KS- The Labette Community College Board of Trustees, in attendance, unanimously voted to purchase the building, which houses the Factory Connection clothing store, at 1306 Main St, Parsons for $190,000. The acquisition of the 3,975 square foot building was made possible through an anonymous private donation to the LCC Foundation.  

The donation, restricted to the purchase of the building, will allow the college to acquire this prime property without utilizing college funds. The college anticipates a closing date within the next 30 days, and will take possession after the closing is complete. The current tenant, Factory Connection, has a contract until September 30, 2018 and will remain in the building until that date.  

“We are excited to add the Factory Connection building to our campus family,” said LCC President, Dr. Mark Watkins. “The previous two Labette Community College presidents, Mr. Ron Fundis and Dr. George Knox worked for many years to develop a cohesive campus vision in support of student access and student success. We are grateful for the generous donation which made this acquisition possible. The continued growth of our college is achievable because of the leadership of our Board of Trustees.”

The clothing store is in a desirable location for expansion for the college. It is situated between the Zetmeir Health Science building and the LCC Library, on Main Street. The new addition to LCC’s campus footprint is being proposed as a welcome center for alumni & community events, and workforce & community service courses. The campus currently does not have a large, open, non-athletic area to host such events. 

“It’s kind of like the final piece of the puzzle for LCC,” said Lindi Forbes Executive Director of the LCC Foundation. “This generous donor recognized the opportunity to purchase this property in the middle of our campus. They had witnessed LCC systematically purchasing properties over the years to pave the way for an expanded campus. Thankfully, our donor was willing and able to step in and donate the funds to allow our college to complete this vision. Now, that LCC has all of the Main Street frontage, it will be like a new front door to LCC. We are so grateful for this gift.” 

This purchase is LCC’s latest campus expansion. The extent of the renovations to the building have not yet been determined. A committee has been appointed to research and determine the best use of space for the college and the greater community. 

“Our college needs and appreciates the support of the greater community and county to successfully provide quality learning opportunities for our students who plan to transition to universities or begin work as educated employees to fill the needs of our business and industry,” said Dr. Watkins. “I am thrilled to be a part of this wonderful movement we have here in Labette County. This is a great day to be a Cardinal!”