Lane College celebrates 134th Founder’s Day

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Lane College gymnasium was transformed with chandeliers and banquet tables for their 2nd Annual Founder’s Day Gala.

“Founder’s Day for Lane College, and just to be apart of such a great event, I feel honored to be here,” said supporter Patricia Cooper.

Thousands of alumni and donors filled the room not only to support the college, but students like Brian Simmons who gave a thankful and emotional speech to the audience.

“If it was not for Lane College I honestly wouldn’t know where I’d be,” said Simmons who is a graduating senior. “It feels good to know people still care about their alma mater, where they come from and to still be donating and giving back to us.”

Each Lane Founders Day celebration raises money for student scholarships. The former historical black college, Mississippi Industrial’s Alumni Association gave $100,000 to the college.

“It’s because of days like today, these students have an opportunity to have access to higher education,” said Lane College President Dr. Logan Hampton.

According to Dr. Hampton about 92% of Lane students receive federal grants, so raising money to help fund their education is important.

“Those students wouldn’t  have those funds if it were not for events like this,” said Simmons. “So this is a huge event and it’s very important cause we have so many students that come from improvised backgrounds, like myself, aren’t able to afford certain things.”

Reality court TV Judge Joe Brown made the keynote address; explaining the importance of an education and community support.

“I think about how this community has looked at Lane College, looked at our mission and said ‘we support you with our presence and we support you with our investment’,” said Dr. Hampton.

Dr. Hampton said he believe a strong Lane means a strong Jackson. The Founders Day Gala is Lane Colleges main fundraiser to support it’s students.