Lethbridge College celebrates 60 years, exceeds huge fundraising goal
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LETHBRIDGE – Tuesday (Nov. 1) marked two huge milestones for Lethbridge College.
First, it officially kicked off 60-weeks of celebrations for its 60th anniversary. That time will be used to recognize the passionate visionaries that helped bring Canada’s first publicly-funded community college to life in 1957, it’s on-going dedication to Indigenous education and the role it plays in the community.
“We’ve gone in 60 years from two programs to over 50, and from 38 students to 4500,” said Dr. Paula Burns, college president. “I think what’s really important is that we’re staying in touch with local needs, and we have programs that are designed to meet employer needs.”
Secondly, the “Possibilities are Endless” campaign chairs also announced that the three year long public fundraiser exceeded it’s $25-million goal.
When it started in 2013, the campaign goal was to secure more than $100-million in capital projects and initiatives, and was the largest fundraiser ever undertaken in southern Alberta.
Generous community supporters helped raise $27.8-million for the public portion. Those funds now go towards the new trades and technology building, Kodiak House residence, student awards, a redesigned library and on-going program excellence.
Joyanne Mitchell, campaign manager, couldn’t be more grateful for Lethbridge’s support.
“This goes to students. It supports facilities they’re going to learn in. It supports access to education. It supports strong programming. Surpassing [the goal] means more dollars going to students and a stronger economy locally. It feels great.”
