LCC Foundation Awarded $500,000 Mabee Challenge Grant
February 13, 2020 |
Parsons, KS- The Labette Community College Foundation has recently been awarded a $500,000 challenge grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation, of Midland, TX toward the construction of the LCC Athletic and Wellness Complex.
The LCC Foundation must secure the remaining $831,545 in cash and multi-year pledge commitments by January 14, 2021 in order to receive the challenge grant funding from the Mabee Foundation.
“LCC is extremely grateful for this major support from the Mabee Foundation,” said LCC President Mark Watkins. “Their generosity demonstrates the worthiness of this project.”
LCC Executive Director of Foundation & Alumni, Lindi Forbes said “We are confident this extra boost will motivate not only more donations but also even larger gifts. Every dollar given to help us reach our $831,545 goal will help us bring the $500,000 grant to finish our campaign.”
The Pathways to the Future Athletic Complex capital campaign is focusing on the expansion, major renovation and upgrading of the current gymnasium. The $5,729,900 Athletic Complex project will provide air conditioning, new seating, and other updates to the current gym. It will also make it possible to construct a 21,850 ft. addition to house: classroom space for Exercise Science, Athletic Training, and Physical Education programs; indoor softball/baseball training area; wrestling training area; lockers; showers; weight room; and a fitness center that will be open to all students.
“This grant will help us construct a high quality facility that will greatly enhance the total educational experience available to our students,” Watkins said.
LCC’s current gymnasium was built in 1987. At that time, the college only had 4 athletic teams. Today, the college has 6 athletic teams that include men's and women's programs. More than 15 percent of LCC students participate in sports.
The renovated and expanded facility will address many shortcomings and offer a variety of educational, recreational, athletic and fitness programs,” LCC Athletic Director Aaron Keal said. “The complex will serve the needs of all students, faculty and staff and provide programs that will benefit the community.”
The J. E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation, Inc. was formed in 1948 by Mr. John E. Mabee and his wife, Lottie E. Mabee. The foundation provides grants in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas to assist religious, charitable and educational organizations, particularly in the area of capital improvements.
For more information or to donate contact Lindi Forbes 620-820-1212 or visit www.labette.edu/pathways.