Bidding for a Brighter Future: Labette Community College Foundation Announces 26th Annual Scholarship Auction

By Matthew Marcum

Parsons, KS – The Labette Community College (LCC) Foundation and Alumni Association proudly presents the 26th Annual LCC Auction for Scholarships, the largest fundraising event they host. This year’s theme, “Denim, Diamonds & Pearls: Shining Bright for Scholarships,” adds a touch of elegance and fun to an already exciting evening. Sponsored by McCarty Office Machines, the 2025 auction will take place on Friday, April 25, at the Parsons VFW.
Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and a full dinner provided by Labette Health, along with a lively silent and live auction and additional fun activities. Table sponsorships and individual tickets are still available. Admission is $30 per person or $50 per couple. To accommodate those who cannot attend the in-person event, an online auction will also be available from Sunday, April 26, through Sunday, May 3, closing at 9 PM.

Thanks to Parsons Fine Jewelry this year’s special feature will be a Diamond & Pearl Drawing with all proceeds going to scholarships. “Kim Hedrick, owner of Parsons Fine Jewelry, has been an outstanding donor to our auction for twenty years,” said Lindi Forbes, Executive Director of the LCC Foundation. “This year she donated a stunning 14K white gold, diamond and freshwater pearl necklace and earrings set which coordinates perfectly with our theme.  We are selling chances to win the jewelry set, valued at $1,000, for $20 per ticket or three tickets for $50.” While the winner will be drawn at the auction on April 25, they do not have to be present.

Since its inception, the annual auction has raised more than $900,000 for scholarships—thanks to generous contributions from businesses and individuals. This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 to support scholarships for LCC students during the 2025–2026 academic year. With 80% of LCC’s degree-seeking students qualifying for financial aid, scholarship funds are critical to helping students overcome financial barriers, stay enrolled, and achieve their educational goals.

“All net profits from this event go directly toward scholarships for our students,” said Forbes. “When students earn scholarships, they feel extra support in their corner, which gives them the encouragement they need to persist and succeed.”

To purchase Diamond and Pearl Drawing chances, auction admission tickets, sponsorships, ads in the auction catalog, or to give a contribution by debit or credit card visit www.labette.edu/foundation/auction. Or send checks to LCC Auction for Scholarships, 200 S. 14th Street, Parsons, KS 67357.

For more information, please contact Lindi Forbes at (620) 820-1212 or lindif@labette.edu