Record Breaking Results from the 2025 LCC Auction for Scholarships

By: Josephine Conner

Parsons, KS (May 9, 2025) – The Labette Community College (LCC) Foundation and Alumni Association is thrilled to announce the outstanding success of its 26th Annual Auction for Scholarships, held Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Parsons VFW. This year’s theme, “Denim, Diamonds & Pearls: Shining Bright for Scholarships,” brought sparkle and excitement to an evening focused on changing student lives.

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of sponsors, donors, and guests, the event raised $78,205, surpassing the $50,000 goal and setting a new fundraising record. This remarkable total reflects the heart of a community that believes deeply in the power of education.

All proceeds go directly toward scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year. With more than 80% of LCC’s degree-seeking students qualifying for financial aid, the annual auction plays a critical role in helping students with significant financial challenges reach their goals.

Guests were treated to a full dinner and hors d’oeuvres, courtesy of Labette Health, followed by lively silent and live auctions. A new highlight this year—the Diamond & Pearl Drawing, sponsored by Parsons Fine Jewelry—featured a stunning 14K white gold necklace and earring set adorned with diamonds and freshwater pearls, valued at $1,000. Raffle tickets were available prior to and during the event, with Jenny Hinman winning the coveted jewelry set.

Lindi Forbes, Executive Director of the LCC Foundation and Alumni Association, reflected on the evening’s impact:

“I continue to be amazed at the level of support and love that is given to LCC students each year. I’m so grateful for every bidder, every donor, and every volunteer who came together to support the power of education.”

The auction featured an exciting array of items - from Branson getaways and an antique dish collection to Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals tickets, an autographed Chiefs football, original artwork by Skip Smith, and more. Top-grossing items included a Taylor Swift autographed guitar, Chiefs luxury suite tickets, and the Bourbon & Smoke Basket, filled with rare bourbons and premium cigars. In total, 279 items were donated, with an estimated combined value of $34,568.

Lorraine Evert, President of the LCC Foundation Board, shared her thoughts on the event’s milestone achievement:

“It’s been incredible to watch this event grow over the years, but this year’s record-breaking total is truly something special. As someone who has attended, donated, and bid at the auction for many years, I know firsthand the heart and energy our community pours into it. Raising over $78,000 means more scholarships, more opportunities, and more lives changed—and I’m so proud to be part of that.”

Since its inception, the LCC Auction for Scholarships has raised more than $1 million to support student success.

To learn more about the LCC Foundation, visitwww.labette.edu/foundation, follow the Foundation on Facebook atfacebook.com/LCCFoundationAlumni, or contact Lindi Forbes at (620) 820-1212 or lindif@labette.edu.